Key facts
- US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of an 'invasion' of dangerous ideologies in Europe.
- Hegseth linked these ideologies to immigration arriving by sea.
- He mentioned Spain, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria as affected locations.
- The remarks were made during D-Day anniversary commemorations in Normandy.
- Hegseth called on European countries to contribute more to their defense.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on Saturday that Europe faces an 'invasion' of dangerous ideologies arriving by sea, drawing parallels to the D-Day landings. Speaking at the Normandy American Cemetery, Hegseth specifically mentioned beaches in Spain, Italy, Greece, and Bulgaria as being 'stormed by different, dangerous ideologies' via boats and men. He questioned when European capitals would address this 'invasion,' expressing hope that it was not too late. His remarks echo criticisms frequently voiced by the administration of President Donald Trump, which has argued that Europe is hampered by weak defenses, an inability to manage immigration, and the suppression of far-right and nationalist voices. A U.S. National Security Strategy document issued last year had also warned that Europe faced 'civilizational erasure' and must course-correct to remain a reliable U.S. ally. These sentiments have prompted discussions in European capitals about diversifying away from reliance on U.S. technology and defense. Hegseth also called on European countries to do more to contribute to their defense. The US defence secretary’s remarks come after Washington announced a reduction in the number of American troops stationed in Europe.