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According to Reuters, the administration of US President Donald Trump is preparing to inform NATO allies about a reduction in American military capabilities that could be used to support European countries in the event of a major crisis.
The reported changes concern NATO’s so-called force model, under which member states designate military assets that can be deployed in case of war or a serious security emergency, including an attack on an alliance member. While the exact composition of these forces remains classified, the Pentagon is said to be planning a significant cut to the US contribution.
The Trump administration continues to argue that European allies should take primary responsibility for defending the continent rather than relying on the United States. According to sources cited by Reuters, Washington is expected to formally present its intention to reduce its role at a defense policy meeting in Brussels scheduled for Friday, May 22.
At the same time, US officials stress that the country remains committed to NATO’s nuclear deterrence framework. Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby has previously stated that the United States is still prepared to use its nuclear capabilities to defend NATO allies even if European countries assume greater responsibility for conventional defense forces.
The report highlights growing concern within the alliance over a potential US retrenchment from Europe, with some diplomats warning that reduced American involvement in NATO planning could deepen existing tensions.
Trump and his advisers have repeatedly criticized European allies for insufficient defense spending and reliance on US security guarantees, despite the continued presence of tens of thousands of American troops across Europe.
Reuters also notes that one senior NATO diplomat expressed confidence that the United States would still respond to any major security threat against Europe, despite the planned adjustments.
Separately, reports indicate Trump has ordered the withdrawal of around 5,000 US troops from Germany, a move that would roll back US force levels to pre-2022 figures and affect key military units, including a brigade combat team and long-range artillery assets previously planned for deployment.
