“Europe has to look after its security and cannot rely on America”

In a news report published on January 11, 2026, former NATO commander Richard Shirreff stated that Europe must prioritize its own security and cannot depend on the United States. Shirreff's comments were prompted by concerns that Donald Trump's actions, specifically his attempts to acquire Greenland from Denmark, could destabilize NATO. He believes that such actions could create an opportunity for Russia to exploit a weakened and divided NATO alliance. The report emphasizes the need for Europe to take a more proactive role in ensuring its own defense in light of perceived American unreliability. The article appeared in the Europe section of a news outlet.