Elbridge Colby urges NATO to adopt more European-led defense

U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Political Affairs, Elbridge Colby, has informed NATO members that the alliance must adapt to survive, advocating for a defense of the European continent that is more ‘European-led.’

The Pentagon is currently reviewing the extent of potential reductions to U.S. forces stationed in Europe as Washington shifts its strategic focus toward domestic security and the Indo-Pacific region. According to documents seen by Reuters, this review will provide at least four options for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Future U.S. military presence and support, including nuclear capabilities, may depend on how effectively European allies and Canada respond to demands for NATO reform. Such reform would involve European nations taking primary responsibility for the continent's conventional defense. Colby emphasized during a meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels that the review is not merely about bases and locations, but a broader look at the alliance's strategic position.