Key facts
- NATO's top commander, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, joined a briefing on Friday about a review of US defence engagement in Europe.
- The review is being led by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
- The review aims to shape potential approaches to US troop deployments in Europe.
- Hegseth previously threatened to withhold some US dues to NATO if allies did not meet defence spending commitments.
- The review is expected to last up to six months and include consultations with Congress.
BRUSSELS, Sept 18 (Reuters) - NATO's top commander, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, participated in a virtual briefing on Friday for Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby on potential approaches to a review of US troop deployments in Europe. The review, announced in June by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, is intended to assess America's military presence on the continent and encourage European nations to take on greater defence responsibilities. Hegseth had previously threatened to withhold some US dues to NATO if allies did not meet their defence spending commitments. Grynkewich's participation was in his capacity as head of the US European Command. A document seen by Reuters indicated the review would create at least four sets of options for Hegseth, with Friday's briefing contributing to the possibilities. Hegseth stated in June that the review would last up to six months and involve consultations with Congress, which has legislated a minimum number of US forces in Europe. While he did not explicitly state that troop reductions were a possibility, he emphasized the goal of prompting the continent to increase its own defence efforts while ensuring the US military could meet its global commitments. Hegseth also criticized allies who did not support the US during the Iran war, noting that some denied Washington basing and overflight rights, and stated the review would aim to assure these rights.