U.S. shifts military focus, plans withdrawal from European drills

The United States has informed NATO allies about its plans to withdraw from organising future military exercises in Europe. This information was provided by the British "The Telegraph" and the Swedish "Expressen". The decision concerns exercises that were scheduled for after 2025.

According to "Expressen", the US intends to focus on manoeuvres with countries meeting specific defence spending criteria. This move signals further reduction in American involvement in Europe. Previously, the possibility of withdrawing troops from Germany, where about 35,000 soldiers are stationed, had been considered.

Currently, the Viking-2025 exercises are taking place in Norway, involving over 10,000 soldiers from various countries, including the US. These exercises aim to secure the northern direction.

Donald Trump has long been advocating for increased defence spending by NATO countries. Only 23 out of 32 countries have reached the 2% of GDP target, with only five countries, including Poland, allocating 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 globally. The Financial Times suggests that Trump may reduce his demands for defence spending to 3–3.5% of GDP.