NATO sees no major US pullback, urges Europe to strengthen military capacity

A senior NATO military official, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, has stated that the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation does not anticipate a major withdrawal of the United States from its commitments to the Alliance.

However, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, he said European countries are being urged to significantly strengthen their own defence capabilities.

According to the admiral, he does not foresee a radical reduction in US involvement in NATO, but believes Europe must already assume greater responsibility.

“However, I believe that Europe needs to take responsibility, and we are beginning to do so thanks to serious investment commitments made in The Hague last year. The first results will be seen at the next summit in Ankara,” he noted.

Dragone stressed that European states should focus on developing their own defence capabilities.

“Of course, focus on capability development tasks — on what we plan to procure depending on funding and procurement systems: our air defence systems, ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance), improving electronic warfare capabilities, introducing innovations such as the integration of AI and drones,” he explained.

He also said that large-scale training of soldiers would be required, which member states would provide for NATO.

Commenting on possible changes in the deployment of US forces, the admiral made it clear that he does not expect dramatic shifts, although he does not rule out certain adjustments in American participation.

“Such things have recently been mentioned, certainly, but we need to look at the real situation on the ground. I try to be a pragmatist. Large-scale movements — no, nothing like that. I admit the possibility of some reduction in (US) involvement, but I still have to see what that would actually mean in practice,” he emphasised.

At the same time, he stressed that allies can replace one another when necessary.

“However, if we are truly a strong and mature alliance, other allies can rotate, fill gaps, and take responsibility for NATO’s traditional area of responsibility while another ally is engaged in crisis interception far from us, and that is right,” he noted.

According to him, the factual actions of NATO countries confirm the strength of the Alliance despite political statements.

“If you take into account not words or declarations, but facts, then there are already enough of them to say: the Alliance is strong. We simply need to reinforce this trust by fulfilling our commitments. European allies are stepping up. We are making huge efforts to develop our defence industrial base, creating joint ventures. I believe these are concrete, real signals that allow everyone to trust each other without exception,” he explained.

Dragone also pointed to active support for Ukraine from all 32 member countries, noting that assistance continues and is increasing within the Alliance’s capabilities.

“Yes, just look at Ukraine. NATO, the entire Alliance — all 32 allies — support Ukraine, ensure its resilience, and help as before. Even more, if it is within our capacity, but everyone is helping. No one has stood aside,” Dragone concluded.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov