Hegseth Announces Review of U.S. Forces in Europe, Criticizes NATO Allies
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has launched a six-month review of American military presence in Europe, expressing frustration over NATO allies' defense spending commitments.
Key Facts
- The Pentagon is conducting a six-month review of U.S. forces and bases in Europe.
- Hegseth criticized NATO allies for not meeting the defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035.
- NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reported a €90 billion increase in defense spending among member nations.
- The review announcement comes ahead of the NATO Summit scheduled for next month in Ankara, Turkey.
- Hegseth's remarks included a call for a 'NATO 3.0' to enhance European defense responsibilities.
U.S. Forces Review in Europe
On June 18, 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a significant six-month review of American military forces and bases in Europe. This decision reflects ongoing concerns regarding the commitment of NATO allies to defense spending and their overall military readiness.
Hegseth's announcement coincides with a critical period for NATO, as the alliance prepares for its upcoming summit in Ankara, Turkey. The review aims to assess the effectiveness and positioning of U.S. forces in light of evolving security challenges in Europe.
Criticism of NATO Allies
During his address, Hegseth did not hold back in his criticism of NATO allies, accusing some of 'freeriding' on U.S. military support. He emphasized that many member countries have failed to make tangible progress toward the NATO goal of spending 5% of their GDP on defense by 2035.
This criticism comes in the context of a broader push for increased European defense responsibilities, encapsulated in Hegseth's call for a 'NATO 3.0.' This initiative aims to encourage European nations to take a more proactive role in their own defense, thereby reducing reliance on U.S. military resources.
Increased Defense Spending Among NATO Members
In response to growing security threats, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted that defense spending among member nations has seen a substantial increase, totaling €90 billion in the past year alone. This marks a significant 20% rise compared to 2024, indicating a shift in the alliance's approach to collective defense.
Despite these increases, Hegseth's remarks underscore a persistent concern regarding the adequacy of these efforts. He expects NATO allies to present clear and credible plans to meet the agreed-upon defense spending targets, ideally ahead of the established timeline.
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