BRUSSELS – Amid tension and skepticism among NATO allies, both U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the new U.S. envoy to NATO are striving to reaffirm America’s steadfast commitment to the alliance. On Thursday, Rubio dismissed what’s been described as “hysteria and hyperbole” surrounding President Donald Trump’s position on NATO, despite ongoing indications from Washington questioning the alliance’s contemporary relevance after 75 years.
Rubio, alongside newly appointed U.S. ambassador to NATO, Matt Whitaker, attended a Brussels meeting of NATO foreign ministers, a venue where many hoped to gain clarity on U.S. security agendas in Europe. “The United States remains deeply engaged in NATO,” Rubio assured reporters, emphasizing Trump’s support and the U.S.’ intention to maintain its involvement. “Our aim is for NATO to grow stronger and more visible, which necessitates increased capability from all member nations,” he stated.
Whitaker echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that under Trump’s leadership, NATO would be more potent and efficient. However, he noted that the alliance’s strength hinges on equitable contribution from all allies.
Despite reassurances, concerns linger among European allies and Canada about Trump’s apparent readiness to forge closer ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who views NATO as adversarial. Efforts to mediate a ceasefire in Ukraine and Trump’s critical rhetoric toward allies like Canada and Denmark further fuel apprehension.
During the NATO meeting, Rubio also met Danish Foreign Affairs Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen. Although they sidestepped a direct question about Greenland, which Trump has shown interest in, they maintained a cordial demeanor. Alongside geopolitical tensions, Trump’s global tariffs impacting allies compound the prevailing uncertainty.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has warned of the threats to NATO unity posed by Trump’s recent decisions. Speculations persist about a potential U.S. troop withdrawal from Europe, although NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that there are no immediate plans for such a drawdown. Still, some European nations are concerned about potential security gaps and seek clarity from Rubio.
As Europe’s fears deepen, a senior NATO diplomat highlighted the urgent need for countries to prepare for any abrupt U.S. military retreat. Meanwhile, in Washington, the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized perceived attempts by the Pentagon’s “mid-level” officials to reduce American troop levels in Europe. Although no formal proposal has been announced, frustrations linger over what’s seen as a lack of coordination.
For NATO Secretary-General, balancing these tensions is challenging as maintaining the U.S. presence in Europe remains critical for deterring Russia. Simultaneously, member states are prompted to increase defense spending, particularly after Russia’s expanded incursion into Ukraine.
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp underscored the necessity for European allies to assume greater responsibility for their security. Meanwhile, European nations and Canada focus on developing “burden shifting” strategies to manage responsibilities and mitigate potential security vacuums if U.S. forces diminish their presence.