US defense review presses NATO allies to prove they are taking the lead in Europe

On Thursday, the Pentagon urged NATO allies to demonstrate their commitment to bolstering Europe's defense as the United States redirects its focus towards security concerns nearer to home and in the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. has initiated the process of reducing its forces stationed in Europe, with around 80,000 still deployed, and is conducting a review to determine the extent of further cuts.

A strong U.S. presence remains crucial for NATO's capacity to deter adversaries in the region, particularly from Russia. The cuts will hinge on the responsiveness of European allies and Canada to a U.S. demand for a review of NATO, which would entail European nations taking charge of the conventional defense of Europe, with the U.S. providing backup, including nuclear weapons, if necessary.

After a briefing at NATO headquarters in Brussels, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby commended Germany, Poland, and Scandinavian nations for their efforts. However, he expressed a desire to see more from countries like the United Kingdom, stating that Washington seeks to modernize NATO into a more realistic, fitting-for-purpose, and contemporary structure.

The Pentagon has distributed a survey requesting written responses from allies regarding their plans to meet U.S. objectives. Colby mentioned that the survey has already received several questionnaires and is eagerly anticipating their review.

The survey includes inquiries beyond NATO, such as whether allies will permit unfettered access to U.S. forces in their bases and airspace. Tensions arose in Europe following the United States' unconsulted war on Iran.