Pentagon presses NATO allies to take lead on Europe's defense

The Pentagon has formally asked NATO allies to demonstrate how they will assume greater responsibility for Europe's conventional defense, as Washington reconsiders the scale of its military footprint on the continent.

With roughly 80,000 U.S. troops still stationed in Europe, the Department of Defense has initiated a posture review to determine the extent of future reductions. The outcome will hinge on how effectively European members and Canada respond to U.S. demands for a restructured alliance.

Under the proposed model, European allies would lead conventional deterrence efforts, while the United States would provide support—including nuclear capabilities—only if necessary. The review is part of a broader U.S. strategic shift toward challenges closer to home and in the Indo-Pacific.

Speaking after a briefing at NATO headquarters in Brussels, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby acknowledged progress by Germany, Poland, and the Scandinavian nations. However, he expressed a need for greater commitment from others, singling out the United Kingdom.

"We hope to see more from countries like the United Kingdom," Colby told reporters, adding that Washington aims to create a "more realistic, fit-for-purpose, fit for time, more balanced structure" for the alliance.

The Pentagon has circulated a questionnaire to allies seeking detailed responses on how they plan to meet these expectations. Colby confirmed that several responses had already been received, though he did not specify which nations had replied.

The survey extends beyond traditional NATO defense matters, asking whether allies would grant U.S. forces unfettered access to their bases and airspace. This request carries particular weight given past European hesitation when the United States launched military action against Iran without prior consultation.

Colby linked the access question to broader security interests, stating that Europe shares an interest in preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. "We need to be able to have the ability to operate effectively. We need predictability," he said.