Hegseth announces review of US forces in Europe as he criticises NATO allies in Brussels
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth criticised European allies sharply at NATO headquarters and announced a review of the US force posture in Europe. The statement is read as a signal of structural change in continental defence arrangements.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking at NATO headquarters, argued European allies were prioritising what he called liberal ideals over practical defence needs. The centrepiece of the statement was the announcement of a review of the US force posture on the continent, which Hegseth said would be completed by year-end.
European diplomats kept their reaction measured. Germany and France said they supported burden-sharing within the alliance, but that the US should not take a unilateral withdrawal decision. Poland and the Baltic states called for transparent talks on US deployments along the eastern flank. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed the alliance's unity.
The move could force Europe to speed up planning for a deterrence framework without the US. According to Euronews, the European Commission is weighing additional budget options for a joint defence procurement fund. Investors are tracking volatile, selective buying in EU defence contractor stocks.
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