US Reduces NATO Commitment, Rutte: Does Not Mean Withdrawal from Europe

(Central News Agency, Brussels, 17th -综合 foreign media reports) NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said today that the United States' announcement to reduce troops available for NATO command does not mean Washington is withdrawing from Europe.

According to Agence France-Presse, Rutte stated ahead of the NATO Defense Ministers' meeting, 'In some cases, this has been seen as a problem—that the US is distancing itself from its allies. But that is not the case.'

Washington has informed its allies that it will reduce the number of troops and assets made available to NATO commanders, expecting European countries to 'take primary responsibility' for their own conventional defense.

Rutte said, 'The US has adjusted its commitment to the NATO Force Model. This is not primarily about where troops and assets are currently deployed, but about who is responsible for what once our defense plans are activated.'

US and German media reported that the reductions include one-third of the 150 US F-16 and F-15 fighter jets previously available to NATO, as well as tankers, reconnaissance aircraft, bombers, and drones.

Reports also indicate that one nuclear-powered submarine capable of launching cruise missiles and one of two aircraft carrier strike groups will be withdrawn.

Amid concerns over former President Trump's questioning of US commitments to NATO, there are fears this move could expose Europe to greater security risks in the face of Russia.

Rutte said, 'In the past, we relied too heavily on the US. Now, as the US adjusts its commitments, other allies are beginning to increase their contributions.'

He emphasized that it is critically important for Europe and Canada to contribute more in conventional defense, recognizing that the US must fulfill its global obligations. (Translated by: Ho Hung-Ju) 1150617

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