Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the U.S. may no longer guarantee European security due to a stronger focus on national interests and a competitive stance against China. He urged European nations to invest in their own defense while the U.S. commits to supporting them. Hegseth also stated that any European peacekeeping missions in Ukraine should not involve NATO, reflecting a shift in defense roles amidst evolving global dynamics.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently advised Europeans that the U.S. may not be able to guarantee their security due to pressing realities, which includes a prioritization of national defense against China. He stated that the U.S. is shifting its focus to securing its own borders and facing a capable competitor in the Communist Chinese regime, highlighting the need for effective deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
During a meeting in Belgium with the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Hegseth emphasized that European nations should take charge of their own security, suggesting a collaboration where shared responsibilities enable both Europe and the U.S. to leverage their strengths effectively.
While Hegseth reassured that there are no immediate plans for a troop withdrawal from Europe, he noted the importance of European nations investing more in their defense. He remarked on the necessity for countries in close proximity to invest in protecting their territory, highlighting the mantra that “common sense” dictates they should lead their defense efforts.
Currently, around 100,000 U.S. troops are positioned in Europe, with a significant portion in Germany, while a larger contingent is stationed in the Indo-Pacific. Hegseth remarked on the historical context of troop reductions during the Trump administration but reinforced ongoing U.S. commitments in Europe.
Hegseth asserted that any European-proposed peacekeeping forces to assist Ukraine should not be affiliated with NATO nor protected under Article 5, ensuring clarity on defense obligations. He conveyed skepticism regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership as part of a negotiated settlement, reinforcing the notion of European countries stepping up their defense spending as previously urged by Trump.
Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelenskyy has echoed these sentiments, stating that security guarantees from Europe without U.S. support do not constitute real security, reinforcing the idea that U.S. involvement is pivotal.
In conclusion, Hegseth’s remarks signal a shift in U.S. defense postures, emphasizing that while Europe must take greater responsibility for its security, America remains committed to supporting its allies. The focus on deterring threats in the Indo-Pacific and the limited capacity to serve as a security guarantor for Europe underscore a need for strategic adjustments among NATO allies. This scenario propels critical dialogues regarding European defense investments and the role of U.S. forces overseas.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
