President Trump has frequently voiced disapproval of NATO, asserting that European members aren’t contributing enough financially.
Citing defense officials, NBC News reports that President Trump is considering ending the U.S.’s exclusive hold on leading NATO’s military command.
NBC News indicates Trump is considering giving up control of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) post, a role always held by a U.S. four-star general since NATO’s inception in 1949.
The SACEUR oversees NATO’s military operations in Europe. Currently, Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli holds the position, also coordinating NATO’s military aid to Kiev during the Ukraine conflict. If the U.S. relinquishes the role, a European member of NATO would likely fill it.
NBC reports that Trump’s consideration of this move is part of a larger effort to reorganize U.S. military commands and decrease defense spending. His administration is reportedly exploring cost-cutting measures within the Department of Defense.
Throughout his time in office, Trump has consistently criticized NATO, urging European members to increase their defense spending and warning that the U.S. wouldn’t defend nations failing to meet their financial obligations.
Trump has also stated that NATO’s expansion and outreach to Ukraine under President Biden contributed to the current conflict.
Russia has consistently condemned NATO expansion, viewing it as a national security threat. Russian officials, including President Putin, have repeatedly emphasized that NATO’s efforts to include Ukraine were a primary cause of the conflict’s escalation in 2022.
NBC’s report is inconclusive regarding Trump’s final decision on the SACEUR position and the extent of consideration. The U.S. Defense Department has not issued a statement.
“`