Europe’s Defense at Risk as US Support Falters

Concerns are mounting across Europe regarding its defense capabilities as the potential for diminished U.S. support becomes increasingly apparent. These anxieties, initially sparked during the early stages of a second Trump administration with questions surrounding aid to Ukraine and a perceived shift in U.S. policy towards Moscow, have broadened into a fundamental debate about European self-reliance within the NATO alliance.

General Philip Breedlove, former Supreme Allied Commander for Europe (2013-2016), recently concluded a tour of several European nations assessing the continent’s preparedness for a potential American pullback. During a stop in Sofia, Bulgaria, Breedlove spoke with The Cipher Brief’s Managing Editor Tom Nagorski about the growing concerns.

The discussion underscores a critical juncture for European security. While NATO has long operated under the principle of collective defense, the possibility of a “full-throated” American retreat forces Europe to seriously evaluate its own capacity to deter and defend against potential threats. This isn’t simply about financial contributions; it’s about developing independent capabilities, streamlining defense spending, and fostering greater strategic autonomy.

The situation demands a frank assessment of European defense infrastructure and a willingness to invest in modernization and interoperability. Relying solely on the assumption of continued U.S. leadership is no longer a viable strategy. The continent must proactively address its vulnerabilities and demonstrate a commitment to shared security, regardless of future American policy decisions. The questions raised by General Breedlove’s tour are not merely academic; they represent a pressing need for Europe to define its role in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.