Report says US plans to cut NATO military contributions and press Europe to fill gaps

The United States plans to significantly reduce the military forces and capabilities it contributes to NATO operations, according to a report citing sources in Europe and remarks from a Pentagon envoy in Brussels. German magazine Der Spiegel said Pentagon representative Alexander Velez-Green briefed allies late last week on Washington's intention to scale back its commitments under the NATO Force Model, the alliance framework used to plan and manage forces.

The reported reductions would affect combat aircraft, ships, drones and refueling aircraft, with European members expected to make up the shortfall themselves. Der Spiegel said the US is seeking a broader redistribution of burdens within the alliance and that the scale of the planned cuts surprised European officials. The report said Washington intends to reduce the number of fighter jets assigned to NATO by about one-third, while also cutting strategic bombers and destroyers available for alliance operations.

According to the report, the Pentagon will stop providing submarines for NATO missions, and European countries will be expected to secure their own reconnaissance drones. Although the figures were not made public by NATO or the German government, Velez-Green reportedly said the US remains ready to work closely with allies that move quickly to increase their own contributions. The report said Washington expects proposals from European countries in early June.

The account also said the US has made clear it plans to remain involved in NATO's nuclear deterrence efforts in Europe, even as it reduces other military contributions. The reported changes would mark a significant shift in the US role in alliance force planning and in the division of responsibilities between North America and Europe.