Brussels (Belgium) (AFP) – NATO chief Mark Rutte said Wednesday that the United States was not stepping back from Europe by announcing cuts to the forces it makes available to the alliance.
Issued on: 17/06/2026 - 12:32
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'The US has adjusted its pledges to the NATO Force Model,' aid Rutte © Nicolas TUCAT / AFP
"In some cases this has been cast as a problem -- as the US pulling away from its allies. But that is not the reality," Rutte said on the eve of a meeting of NATO defence ministers. Washington has told allies it is reducing the assets it puts at disposal of NATO commanders as it expects European countries to take "primary responsibility" for their own conventional defence. "The US has adjusted its pledges to the NATO Force Model," Rutte said. "This is not primarily about where forces and assets are currently, but about who would do what if our defence plans were activated."US and German media reported that the cuts include a third of the 150 US F-16 and F-15 jets designated for NATO, plus refuelling and reconnaissance aircraft, bombers and drones. The reports said a submarine that can launch cruise missiles is also being taken out, along with one of two aircraft carrier groups.The US move has sparked fear it could leave Europe vulnerable in the face of an aggressive Russia as questions swirl over US President Donald Trump's commitment to the alliance. Multiple European diplomats insisted that Europe could step up to replace the capabilities that the US was cutting, if they are given enough time to fill the gaps.
