US announces review of military presence in Europe, Pete Hegseth says

Thursday 18 June 2026 - 12:30

The United States has announced a comprehensive review of its military presence in Europe, signaling a potential shift in the strategic balance within the NATO alliance.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that the reassessment will take place over a six-month period and will examine the deployment of American forces across European territory. The review is intended to evaluate how US military assets are positioned and how they can be used more effectively in coordination with NATO allies.

According to Hegseth, the process is designed to ensure that NATO evolves toward a structure in which European countries take on greater responsibility for their own defense. He emphasized that the alliance should move toward a model where Europe assumes the primary role in securing the continent, while still maintaining strong transatlantic cooperation.

The US official also indicated that the review would address operational access to NATO bases in Europe, ensuring that American forces can use facilities when necessary. This includes clarifying agreements on access rights, airspace usage, and logistical support during military operations.

Hegseth’s comments come amid ongoing discussions within NATO about burden-sharing and defense spending commitments. The United States has repeatedly called on European allies to increase their military budgets and meet agreed-upon targets for defense investment.

He also suggested that future US financial contributions to NATO could be influenced by the level of defense spending among member states. Countries that do not meet their commitments could see reduced levels of US support, according to his remarks.

The announcement highlights broader tensions within the alliance over strategic priorities, military responsibilities, and resource allocation. NATO members have recently agreed to increase defense spending targets significantly in response to evolving global security challenges.

Analysts note that the review could mark an important moment in transatlantic relations, as both the United States and Europe reassess their roles within the alliance amid shifting geopolitical pressures.

While the outcome of the review remains uncertain, it is expected to have significant implications for NATO’s operational structure and the future deployment of US forces in Europe.