US officially announces reduction of participation in NATO forces, Europe urged to take on more responsibility
Kyiv • UNN
Washington has officially notified NATO of a reduction in its participation in the Force Model. European allies must strengthen their own defense and aviation component.
The United States has officially notified NATO allies of a reduction in its participation in the NATO Force Model, which includes, in particular, the Alliance's rapid response forces. This is stated in a statement by the United States European Command, as reported by UNN.
Washington explained the decision by citing the new U.S. defense strategy and a course toward "fair burden-sharing" among allies.
The U.S. wants Europe to take more responsibility
As noted in the report, the initiative is being coordinated by the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense for Policy, Elbridge Colby. The primary goal is to strengthen the role of European countries in ensuring their own security.
"There was an unhealthy codependency of the NATO Force Model on American troops. President Trump, Secretary of Defense Hegseth, and others have clearly stated that this must change — and it will change," said General Alexus Grynkewich, Commander of U.S. European Command.
According to him, the potential for simultaneous conflicts in different regions of the world is forcing Washington to reorient its resources.
The U.S. expects greater contributions from allies
The Pentagon believes that European countries and Canada already have sufficient capabilities to strengthen their own defense without critical dependence on the United States.
The statement notes that allies can increase their contributions primarily in the field of aviation — both manned and unmanned — as well as in the maritime component.
"Allies have already stepped up. Nations have the opportunity to demonstrate strength and commitment to collective defense ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara," Grynkewich added.
NATO is already discussing the replacement of American capabilities
Allies discussed the issue of reducing American participation during a conference at SHAPE headquarters in Mons, Belgium, on June 2–3.
U.S. European Command emphasized that the changes had been prepared in coordination between NATO structures and the U.S. military over several months.
Washington also believes that the updated model will make the Alliance's defense plans "more realistic" and less dependent on American forces, which the U.S. may need in other regions of the world.