Key facts
- The U.S. is conducting a review of its forces in Europe, assessing NATO allies' defense spending and military access.
- Deputy Pentagon chief Elbridge Colby is leading the review, which seeks to encourage European countries to increase their defense contributions.
- The review is partly motivated by restrictions some NATO nations have placed on U.S. military access to airspace and bases.
- Allies were asked to detail their views on defense spending and U.S. foreign policy via a questionnaire.
- The U.S. seeks predictable access to American bases in Europe as a key criterion for its military presence.
- Poland has indicated readiness to host U.S. troops permanently, proposing locations and logistical support.
The United States is undertaking a comprehensive review of its military forces stationed in Europe, with Deputy Pentagon chief Elbridge Colby engaging NATO allies to assess their defense spending and military access. This initiative is part of a broader U.S. campaign to encourage greater European self-reliance in defense and ensure predictable access to bases and airspace.
Colby's rare visit and the distribution of a questionnaire to allies aim to gauge their commitment to key U.S. defense objectives and their alignment with American foreign policy. The review was partly prompted by restrictions imposed by countries like France, Italy, and Spain on U.S. military operations, which had previously led President Donald Trump to threaten NATO withdrawal.
While some allies have expressed concerns about the U.S. approach, viewing it as a demand for allegiance, Colby has clarified that the questionnaire is not intended to dictate terms or grant unconditional access. He acknowledged and praised allies for rebuilding their military strength for collective defense, emphasizing the need for operational effectiveness and predictability.
During discussions, NATO ambassadors highlighted their progress in meeting alliance military capability targets and defense spending goals, offering to substitute U.S. forces in certain alliance war plans. Poland, through its Deputy Defense Minister Paweł Zalewski, expressed readiness to propose locations and logistical support for the permanent stationing of U.S. troops, though emphasizing common interests over competitive offers.
U.S. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander of American troops in Europe, is expected to present military recommendations to Colby next month. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is anticipated to make a more formal decision on the review's outcome in November.