The Trump administration intends to significantly reduce the military forces the Pentagon is prepared to contribute to NATO for responding to major crises, Reuters reported, citing three informed sources. According to the agency, the Pentagon has decided to reduce the American share of the so-called NATO Force Model—the list of units and weapons that alliance member countries commit to providing for collective defense. The new approach is expected to be formally communicated to allies at the upcoming NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels.

The decision to review the commitments was made in the context of Trump's demands, which he has consistently pressed European members of the alliance for increased military spending and greater independence in security matters. The American leader has repeatedly stated that the United States no longer wants to be the "primary sponsor" of Europe's defense, particularly given the conflict with Iran, where, in his view, the allies have abandoned Washington's support.

The Pentagon and NATO commanders explain that the reduction is not a one-time troop withdrawal, but a long-term adjustment tied to the growth of Europe's own military potential. "We expect a redeployment of American forces over time as allies build their capabilities," General Alexus Grynkevich, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said at a press conference in Brussels.

This decision marked the latest step in reconsidering the US role in the alliance. Earlier, in early May, the Pentagon officially announced the withdrawal of 5 troops from Germany and also threatened to reduce their presence in Italy and Spain, which, according to Trump, "behaved terribly" by refusing to support the operation against Iran.

Nevertheless, American officials emphasize that the United States will retain its "critical capabilities" in Europe, including tactical nuclear weapons and advanced infrastructure, which allies currently rely on. However, reducing the size of the rapid reaction force could alter the balance within the alliance, forcing Europe to invest more in its own military and reducing its dependence on Washington for logistics and intelligence.