U.S. to discuss troop reductions in Europe after NATO summit

The United States will begin talks with allies later this year on scaling back its military presence in Europe.

U.S. ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker confirmed the plan Friday, saying discussions will start after the NATO summit in The Hague this June.

Speaking in Estonia, Whitaker said the move reflects a long-standing U.S. goal to shift military focus. "It’s more than 30 years of U.S. desire (to reduce troops in Europe), President Trump just said, enough, this is going to happen and it’s going to happen now, this is going to be orderly, but we are not going to have any more patience for foot dragging in this situation... We just need to work through the practical consequences." he told a security forum.

He emphasized, however, that the U.S. is not withdrawing from NATO and will remain a committed ally.

Tensions have risen amid repeated complaints from Washington about European countries not spending enough on defense. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that America can no longer prioritize Europe’s security.

Reports of internal frustration within the Trump administration, including from Vice President JD Vance and Hegseth, have increased European concerns about future U.S. support — especially for Ukraine.

Whitaker also cautioned the European Union against blocking non-European companies from defense contracts, saying this could weaken NATO cooperation and slow military modernization.

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