Pete Hegseth Announces U.S. Review of Forces in Europe Amid NATO Tensions
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of American military presence in Europe, citing NATO allies' failure to meet defense spending targets and criticism of their prioritization of liberal ideals over practical security needs. The move follows a U.S. decision to scale back commitments to a high readiness force and comes amid pressure on allies to increase defense spending. The review includes consultations with Congress and is part of a broader push for a 'NATO 3.0' initiative.
Where Sources Diverge
The exact duration of the review is mentioned as six months in multiple sources, but one source notes it may last up to six months.
within the next six months
up to six months
The financial commitment of $790 million is mentioned in one source as a specific figure, while others do not specify.
$790 million in 2026
Sources
Hegseth slammed Europe for prioritising what he called liberal ideals over practical defence needs as he lambasted the alliance’s defence chiefs in a rare appearance at the NATO HQ in Brussels.
The US defence secretary's move follows a US decision to scale back its commitments to a high readiness force within the alliance.
Pete Hegseth said going forward, that Washington paying its dues to cover NATO organisational running costs — roughly some $790 million in 2026 — would be "contingent" on allies reaching spending targets
The US defence secretary's move follows a US decision to scale back its commitments to a high readiness force within the alliance.
Pete Hegseth says the review would last for up to six months and include consultations with Congress.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told NATO the Pentagon will conduct a review of its force presence in Europe within the next six months. The review will depend on how fast European NATO allies take responsibility for their own security. This comes on the back of a G7 summit deemed a success, as Trump has signalled backing Ukraine against Russia. FRANCE 24's Dave Keating tells us more from Brussels.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told NATO Thursday the Pentagon will review its force presence in Europe within the next six months, as Washington pressures allies to step up their defences amid anger over their response to the Iran war.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth lashed out at NATO allies on Thursday, announcing a review of American forces in Europe, and calling for a reboot of the organization to turn it into a "NATO 3.0."