Hegseth launches 'NATO 3.0' review of US bases in Europe, ties contributions to allied spending

The NATO 3.0 review

Hegseth announced the review at a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels on Thursday, framing it as a step toward a "balanced alliance where Europe takes the lead in its own defense". The review will examine US force posture, base access and overflight rights, and will involve collaboration with US European Command and consultations with both Congress and allies. He said the process could take up to six months and would be a "real review", with some countries "failing and others passing with flying colours".

“We are redoubling our efforts to make NATO what it always should have been: a balanced alliance in which Europe takes the lead in its own defense, 'NATO 3.0'. And to make this goal a reality, I announce today a six-month Department of War review that will examine the force posture and bases of the United States in Europe.”

Furious reaction to ally restrictions on Iran operations

Hegseth directly criticized European allies who denied the US use of bases and airspace during the military campaign against Iran. He described their actions as "shameful", saying they put American soldiers at risk and that there was no excuse. Spain closed its airspace and blocked use of Rota and Morón bases for Operation Epic Fury; similar restrictions came from the UK, France and Italy. The review aims to ensure that US access to bases and overflight is "clearly delimited and secured".

“It was shameful. These allies put the sons and daughters of the United States, our sons and daughters, at risk. There is no excuse for that.”

Defense spending conditions

Hegseth tied future US contributions to NATO directly to allies meeting the 5% of GDP defense spending goal by 2035, agreed at last year's Hague summit. The US currently pays around $790 million annually toward NATO's operating costs. He stated that if allies do not spend urgently, Washington's contributions will decrease proportionally. All 32 members met the previous 2% target in 2024, but only a handful are on track for the 5% goal, with Spain openly rejecting it.

“Wherever other allies do not spend with urgency, our contributions will shrink.”

European allies prepare for US shift

European allies are already working to replace US conventional forces that will be reallocated to other regions like the Indo-Pacific. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the US adjustment a "sign of success" and said it is logical for Europe to shoulder more of its own defense burden. The reassignment will be gradual and will not affect US nuclear capabilities in Europe, which remain under Washington's control.

“It is completely logical that Europeans assume a greater share of the burden. It is something peculiar that we still need so much help from another country, eight hours' flight away, with 350 million people, to defend ourselves against 140 million.”

Timeline of pivotal dates