US and European defence ministers signaled in Brussels on Thursday that NATO must adapt to remain effective, with Europe taking a larger role in its own defence. While both sides agree on the need for change, their reasons differ: the US is looking to shift focus to other global regions, while Europeans are cautious about relying too heavily on an unpredictable American administration.
US Under Secretary of War Eldridge Colby described the vision as “NATO 3.0,” calling for European allies to assume primary responsibility for conventional defence on the continent. “Europe should field the preponderance of the forces required to deter, and if necessary, defeat conventional aggression in Europe,” he said, emphasizing that stronger European capabilities are crucial for the alliance’s future.
A Clear Shift in European Defence
For years, the US has pushed for greater burden-sharing, citing its strategic pivot to the Indo-Pacific. Historically, Europe has shown some reluctance, but the Brussels meeting highlighted a willingness to step up.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called it a pivotal gathering, pointing to a “real shift in mindset” and a stronger European defence pillar. Countries including Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland are exceeding the new target of spending 3.5% of GDP on defence, reaching the goal a decade ahead of schedule.
This momentum follows months of US pressure, including former President Trump’s questioning of NATO’s collective defence obligations, which at one point raised concerns Washington might not assist allies falling short on defence spending.
Taking More Responsibility
European leaders stressed that taking on greater responsibility is both natural and necessary. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said Europe must gradually assume more of the conventional defence role previously shouldered by the US. French and Romanian officials echoed this, emphasizing the need for Europe to be able to protect itself while maintaining collaboration with NATO and the US.
The Netherlands called for a “no-surprise policy” to ensure any US drawdown is matched by a coordinated European ramp-up. The US has already signalled some rebalancing, announcing it would not replace a rotating infantry brigade in Romania, while European allies are increasingly assuming leadership roles in NATO’s command structure.
Maintaining the Transatlantic Bond
Rutte stressed that while Europe should take on more responsibility, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe — who oversees NATO’s military planning — must remain American. This ensures a strong US presence in Europe while allowing Europe to expand its capabilities.
The evolving arrangement reflects a practical division of labour: Europe strengthens its conventional forces, while the US maintains strategic leadership. NATO 3.0 represents a new chapter where Europe steps up, the US rebalances globally, and the alliance continues to rely on transatlantic cooperation.
