The United States has told European NATO allies they must be prepared to lead the alliance's conventional defense by 2027, a tight deadline many European officials deem unrealistic. The demand, communicated in Washington meetings, signals a potential major shift in the U.S. role, with warnings that Washington may withdraw from some coordination mechanisms if the target is not met.
NO CLARITY ON HOW US WOULD MEASURE NATO'S PROGRESS
Pentagon officials did not clarify how progress would be measured, nor was it certain the deadline represented the full Trump administration's position. European officials argue the timeline is unfeasible due to systemic challenges like industrial production backlogs for weapons, even if ordered today. They also note some critical U.S. capabilities, such as unique intelligence assets, cannot be simply purchased or replicated.
A NATO official acknowledged European allies are taking more security responsibility but did not address the 2027 goal. Europe has pledged increased defense spending, with the EU targeting readiness by 2030—a goal already seen as ambitious.
WASHINGTON-NATO RELATIONSHIP RUNS HOT AND COLD
The push reflects the Trump administration's persistent call for European self-reliance, though President Trump's personal stance has wavered from threatening allies to praising their spending commitments. Recent U.S. diplomatic moves on Ukraine have also largely sidelined European input, highlighting ongoing tensions within the alliance despite public pledges of unity.
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Source: REUTERS
