Europe Advances Self-Reliant NATO Plans Amid U.S. Doubts

European officials are accelerating informal plans to restructure NATO into a more self-reliant, Europe-led alliance, known informally as "European NATO," amid heightened concerns over potential reductions in U.S. military involvement. The initiative, reported widely in recent days, aims to ensure the alliance's operational continuity, deterrence against Russia, and nuclear credibility even if Washington withdraws forces or support from Europe.

The push gained urgency following repeated threats from President Donald Trump to pull back from NATO, including proposals to relocate approximately 84,000 U.S. troops stationed across the continent from nations he views as insufficiently supportive. Trump has criticized allies for not backing U.S. efforts in the ongoing conflict with Iran, particularly Operation Epic Fury aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and for refusing access to airspace or bases. He has described NATO as a "paper tiger" and allies as "cowards," while floating the idea of exiting the 32-member pact, though any formal withdrawal would require congressional approval. As commander in chief, however, Trump could unilaterally reposition assets or withhold aid.