The United States has announced that it will begin formal discussions with its European allies later this year about the possibility of reducing the number of American troops stationed across Europe. These talks are expected to start after the NATO summit in The Hague in June.
US Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, stated that no final decisions have been made yet. However, once any plans are ready, they will be shared openly with NATO partners. Whitaker said, “Once a decision is made, we will begin these discussions within NATO’s framework.” He added that all discussions will be organized and carried out in a way that involves every ally, ensuring a coordinated effort.
The United States has maintained a military presence in Europe for decades, mostly to help protect its allies and deter any threats. Whitaker emphasized that this long-standing presence has always come with the goal of keeping peace and stability. Now, however, there is a push to move forward with reducing those numbers, something US leaders have considering for many years.
No Security Gaps, Says US
Despite the possible reduction, Whitaker reassured that there would be no security gaps. He made it clear that the United States remains committed to defending its NATO allies and that all steps will be taken to avoid weakening the alliance. “We just need to work through the practical consequences,” he said, referring to the troop adjustments.
Whitaker, speaking at a security conference in Estonia, explained that the United States will approach any changes carefully. He said the aim is to make this transition in an orderly manner without disrupting current security arrangements.
He pointed out that this move is not sudden. In fact, he said that the idea of reducing troops in Europe has existed for more than 30 years, and it is only now that action is being taken. He credited President Donald Trump for putting the matter forward, saying Trump had decided, “Enough, this is going to happen and it’s going to happen now.”
Tension with Europe Over Defence Spending
The announcement comes at a time when tensions between the US and some European allies are already rising. In February, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth informed NATO members that the United States could no longer make Europe’s security its main priority.
According to reports, Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance have also expressed frustration with European countries that spend too little on their own defence.
The Atlantic reported that in private conversations, Hegseth had voiced his “loathing of European free-loading.” Such remarks, combined with earlier warnings from Trump about not protecting under-spending members, have increased concerns in Europe about the strength of US support.
Whitaker addressed these concerns by saying the United States is not leaving NATO. “The United States will stay committed to this alliance and continue to be a strong and reliable partner,” he said.
He also warned the European Union not to shut out non-EU defence companies, stating that this could slow Europe’s ability to build up its military and harm NATO’s ability to work as one team. Whitaker argued that such restrictions could increase costs, reduce innovation, and weaken cooperation between allies.
Although changes may be coming, Whitaker repeated that they would be made in partnership with NATO members and with full transparency. The talks are set to begin after the NATO summit, marking the start of what may be a major shift in the US military’s role in Europe.