Trump Push for Europe to Pay More as US Plans Major NATO Force Reduction – UK Times

The Trump administration is reportedly planning a significant reduction in the aircraft and warships it allocates to NATO operations in Europe, according to a New York Times report citing two senior European officials.

This decision could severely curtail NATO’s capacity for long-range strikes and surveillance.

The proposed cuts include reducing the number of F-16 and F-15E fighter jets from approximately 150 to 100, scaling back maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15, and withdrawing all eight aerial refueling tanker jets previously available to Europe.

Further reductions involve redeploying a missile-launching submarine, an aircraft carrier, several warships, and scores of jets supporting carrier missions.

One of the two bomber groups assigned to European defense may also be reallocated.

Reuters was unable to immediately verify the report, and neither NATO nor the U.S. Department of Defense responded to requests for comment.

Last week, the U.S. Eastern Command stated it would “rightsize” its contributions to the NATO Force Model, though without providing specifics.

This move aligns with a Reuters report in May indicating that the U.S. plans to reduce the military capabilities it offers to allies during major crises.

Donald Trump’s administration has frequently accused European governments of underinvesting in their militaries and over-relying on U.S. protection, urging both European and Asian allies to boost defense spending to 3.5% of GDP.