Pete Hegseth accuses Nato countries of ‘free riding’ in combative address

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a review of US forces in Europe, signaling that some NATO allies will fail to meet their commitments. This move follows a US decision to scale back its contributions to a high-readiness force within the alliance, with details on air and naval capabilities yet to be released. Hegseth stated that US dues will be contingent on other countries meeting their defense spending targets, criticizing some wealthy allies for "free-riding." The changes are effective immediately, and while a senior NATO official acknowledged that not all US withdrawals can be fully replaced, efforts are underway to address the gap. The review comes as the UK's defense investment plan is reportedly insufficient.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month review of American troop deployments in Europe. This review, which will involve consultations with Congress, aims to ensure NATO allies increase their defense spending and take greater responsibility for European security. Hegseth also criticized allies for not supporting the US during its conflict with Iran and threatened to withhold some US dues to NATO if commitments are not met. The US is also reducing the pool of military capabilities available to NATO, seeking to end an "unhealthy codependence" on American forces as it anticipates potential conflicts in multiple regions.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a review of the US military presence in Europe, threatening to reduce forces in countries with low defense spending. Speaking at a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels, Hegseth accused some allies of "free riding" and criticized others for not allowing US jets to use their airbases for operations against Iran. The review aims to pressure European nations to increase their military budgets, with US NATO contributions potentially linked to allies meeting defense spending targets. This initiative aligns with the Trump administration's goal for European allies to take greater responsibility for their own defense against Russia, aiming for a 3.5% GDP defense spending target by 2035. While the exact impact is unclear, potential cuts include redeploying US aircraft.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a six-month Pentagon review of American forces in Europe on Thursday. The review's outcome will be contingent on European allies demonstrating increased responsibility for their own security. Hegseth stated the review aims to ensure NATO moves towards Europe taking primary responsibility for its defense. He criticized European allies for failing to grant US forces access to bases in Europe for potential operations against Iran, deeming this failure "shameful." The announcement was made to NATO counterparts in Brussels.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a review of US troop benefits in Europe, stating that US contributions to the NATO budget will be tied to other nations meeting their defense spending targets. This review is intended to improve US force posture and basing, and strengthen NATO by encouraging Europe to take primary responsibility for its own defense. Hegseth emphasized that the review will not be superficial, and countries that do not spend with urgency will see a reduction in US contributions, making NATO a "two-way street." The initiative aims to ensure NATO is moving towards European leadership in defense.