Hegseth orders review of U.S. troops committed to NATO
U.S. NATO review tests Europe’s defense burden as Hegseth presses allies See what the Pentagon’s shift could mean for NATO spending and security
U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said in Brussels on Thursday that the Pentagon will review America’s military commitment to NATO and assess whether European allies are taking enough responsibility for the continent’s security.
Speaking to defence ministers at NATO headquarters, Hegseth criticized some allies over defence spending, access to bases, and what he described as overreliance on the United States. He said the review will examine whether current force commitments in Europe still fit U.S. priorities, including the need to prepare for possible conflicts in both Europe and the IndoPacific.
The announcement comes as NATO members prepare for next month’s summit in Ankara, where allies are expected to present plans for meeting the alliance’s revised spending goals. Canadian officials said Ottawa is still developing its roadmap, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledged the review could lead to changes but said Europe has increased defence spending in the past year.