US War Secretary Pete Hegseth accused European allies of decades of military 'free-riding' on Thursday, unveiling a review that could reshape Washington's military presence across the continent.
Hegseth Calls for 'NATO 3.0'
Addressing NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Hegseth called for a 'NATO 3.0' built on European military power rather than dependence on the United States. 'The Trump administration has said again and again in the last year and a half, our allies must step up. President Trump has been very clear on this point for many years in over two administrations. And for too long, NATO has been a paper tiger and a one-way street. No more,' Hegseth said.
Demand for Real Military Alliance
He demanded that partners return NATO to a 'real military alliance', like the organisation that 'won the Cold War'. The remarks mark a significant shift in US policy, emphasizing European self-reliance in defense matters.
Hegseth's comments come amid ongoing tensions within the alliance over defense spending and strategic priorities. The review could lead to a reduction of US troops in Europe if allies fail to increase their own military contributions.
