Hegseth Says US Is Ending Europe Defense Subsidies

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth says Washington is closing the era of Europe defense subsidies and reshaping its ties with the continent.

US Rethinks Its Role in Europe

The United States is bringing the era of Europe defense subsidies to a close, according to Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth. He says this changes the nature of the relationship between Washington and the continent. Hegseth made the remarks in a speech at the Naval War College in Newport.

Eighty Years of Policy Revised

Hegseth said the guiding principles of American policy have been reconsidered after decades. He singled out Europe as a clear example of that shift.

“The principles that guided American state policy for 80 years have been revised. For example, we are changing the nature of our relations with Europe: the era of subsidized defense is coming to an end,” he said.

Europe Must Carry the Main Load

Hegseth argued that European allies should take on the main share of defense duties in their own region. In his view, the continent must lead its own security efforts.

Trump’s Repeated Complaints to NATO

President Donald Trump has criticized NATO partners many times over this issue. He says they have not provided the funds needed for collective security. Trump stressed that alliance members push this burden onto American taxpayers. The new message on Europe defense subsidies fits that long running complaint.