Hegseth Announces Review Of U.S. Troops in Europe, Presses NATO Allies To Do More
5 hours ago
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is calling on NATO allies to take greater responsibility for their own security, announcing a six-month Pentagon review of U.S. military forces stationed across Europe.
Speaking to defense officials in Brussels on Thursday, Hegseth said the review will examine America's military footprint on the continent and assess whether NATO members are doing enough to lead their own defense efforts.
Hegseth also criticized some European allies for refusing to grant U.S. forces access to military bases during recent operations targeting Iran. He described those decisions as "shameful" and argued they highlighted the need for a stronger and more self-reliant alliance.
The defense secretary called for what he described as a “NATO 3.0,” envisioning an alliance that remains united but places greater responsibility on European nations to provide for their own security.
The announcement comes as the United States plans to significantly increase defense spending over the next several years, with administration officials emphasizing a focus on protecting American interests while maintaining support for NATO and its collective defense mission.
The Pentagon review is expected to conclude later this year and could influence future decisions regarding U.S. troop levels and military resources in Europe.
Speaking to defense officials in Brussels on Thursday, Hegseth said the review will examine America's military footprint on the continent and assess whether NATO members are doing enough to lead their own defense efforts.
Hegseth also criticized some European allies for refusing to grant U.S. forces access to military bases during recent operations targeting Iran. He described those decisions as "shameful" and argued they highlighted the need for a stronger and more self-reliant alliance.
The defense secretary called for what he described as a “NATO 3.0,” envisioning an alliance that remains united but places greater responsibility on European nations to provide for their own security.
The announcement comes as the United States plans to significantly increase defense spending over the next several years, with administration officials emphasizing a focus on protecting American interests while maintaining support for NATO and its collective defense mission.
The Pentagon review is expected to conclude later this year and could influence future decisions regarding U.S. troop levels and military resources in Europe.
