Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, blocked a plan proposed by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth that aimed to reduce American troop levels in Europe. The move came as Hegseth was preparing to brief NATO leaders in Brussels on potential troop drawdowns.
Hegseth had previously informed NATO that the U.S. intended to withdraw submarines, drone support, and naval warships from allied operations in the event of a conflict. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, his troop withdrawal plan was rejected after it was shared with Rubio and other senior administration officials.
Instead of proceeding with the drawdown, Hegseth briefed NATO officials on an upcoming review of U.S. military capabilities in Europe, a process expected to take up to six months. This clash between Rubio and Hegseth illustrates a broader division within the administration regarding the pace and extent of shrinking America's military footprint on the continent. The episode also underscores Rubio's seniority over Hegseth in the Trump cabinet, as the Secretary of State demonstrated the ability to quickly override Pentagon policy concerning Europe.
President Trump has consistently advocated for European nations to bear a greater share of their own defense costs. Hegseth has echoed this sentiment, urging NATO members to assume primary responsibility for continental defense. However, Hegseth's push for more substantial cuts has caused concern among allies and some Republican lawmakers, who fear that a rapid withdrawal could leave NATO vulnerable to Russian aggression.
This anxiety has influenced pending defense legislation, which would prohibit the Pentagon from reducing troop levels in Europe below 76,000 without Hegseth completing a military risk assessment and providing certification. Hegseth's independent approach has reportedly surprised even the President. In May, when Hegseth canceled a routine armored brigade rotation to Poland, Trump allegedly called to question the decision, reportedly stating that the U.S. would instead send 5,000 troops to the country.
Pentagon chief spokesman Sean Parnell stated that Hegseth ensured his communications aligned with the president’s objectives and agenda, and that he did not wish to impede the president's decision-making. President Trump is scheduled to meet with NATO leaders at an upcoming summit in Turkey, where European defense spending and the U.S. role in the alliance are expected to be key discussion points.
