US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced in Brussels a six-month review of American military presence in Europe. The move follows several allies, including Spain, refusing to support the war against Iran.
At the NATO defense ministers meeting, Hegseth warned that Washington would assess allies’ commitment to President Donald Trump. He stated that some countries would “fail” the evaluation and others would “pass with flying colors.” The secretary linked the review to defense spending and Europe’s refusal to allow bases for operations against Iran.
Spain responded immediately. Defense Minister Margarita Robles said Madrid is a “reliable ally” and announced it would make available to the Alliance three tanker aircraft, eight fighters and one additional frigate. Robles stressed that Spain acted consistently with international law by denying use of the Rota and Morón bases.
Hegseth also criticized some wealthy allies for continuing to rely on US protection. He indicated that Washington’s contributions to NATO would be reduced if countries fail to reach the 5 % of GDP defense spending target agreed in The Hague. The review will include consultations but will be “authentic,” according to the Pentagon chief.
