U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a D-Day commemoration speech to warn Europe about an invasion of "dangerous ideologies" and urged the continent to act against mass immigration. He also called for increased defense spending among NATO allies.
The remarks highlight ongoing tensions and differing perspectives between the U.S. and European allies on immigration and defense burden-sharing, potentially impacting transatlantic relations and NATO's strategic direction.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a speech at the 82nd anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France, on June 6, 2026. During the commemoration, Hegseth warned that Europe was facing an invasion of "dangerous ideologies" and urged the continent to take action against mass immigration. He drew parallels between the historical Allied invasion to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation and what he described as a modern-day ideological invasion impacting various European countries.
Hegseth questioned the response from European capitals, asking, "When will European capitals do something about that invasion? Or is it too late?" His remarks echoed criticisms of European immigration policies from other U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The U.S. National Security Strategy from December had also warned of potential "civilizational erasure" in Europe due to migration.
Beyond immigration, Hegseth also emphasized the need for European allies to bolster their defense capabilities. He stated that while America would lead, "capable allies must be right there with us, shoulder to shoulder." Following his speech, Hegseth met with French Minister of the Armed Forces Catherine Vautrin. According to the Pentagon, they discussed the necessity for NATO allies to assume primary responsibility for the conventional defense of Europe by increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP, enhancing defense industrial production, and fielding combat-ready forces.