U.S. to scale back military exercises in Europe from 2025
According to The Telegraph and Expressen, the United States plans to withdraw from planning future military exercises in Europe.
The United States has informed NATO allies about plans to withdraw from planning future military exercises in Europe. The British "The Telegraph" and the Swedish "Expressen" provided this information. The decision concerns exercises that were set to occur after 2025.
Changes in US military policy
According to "Expressen", the US intends to focus on manoeuvres with countries meeting specific defence spending criteria. This indicates a further reduction of American involvement in Europe. Previously, the potential withdrawal of troops from Germany, where about 35,000 soldiers are stationed, was considered.
Currently, the Viking-2025 exercises are underway in Norway. These exercises involve over 10,000 soldiers from various countries, including the US, and aim to secure the northern direction.
Defense spending
Donald Trump has long called for increased defence spending by NATO countries. Only 23 out of 32 countries have met the 2% of GDP threshold, and only five countries allocate more than 3% of GDP to this purpose.
The Pentagon, under Pete Hegseth's leadership, plans budget cuts that may affect the U.S. military presence worldwide. The Financial Times suggests that Trump may lower his demands for defence spending to 3–3.5% of GDP.
