Trump Administration Considers Relinquishing NATO Command Role
By Kardo Roj
WASHINGTON DC, U.S. (North Press) – The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering stepping down from its role as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, a position the U.S. has held since the alliance’s inception, according to NBC News.
Citing senior military officials, the report revealed that the Pentagon is conducting a broad restructuring of combatant commands and military headquarters, with one proposal under review involving the U.S. relinquishing its leadership position within NATO.
The current holder of the post also serves as the commander of U.S. European Command (EUCOM), overseeing critical military support for Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia. A shift in command leadership could have significant implications for NATO’s strategic posture and coordination among allied forces.
NBC News noted that the restructuring remains in the early stages, and there is no clear timeline for its completion. Some aspects of the plan could be revised or abandoned before implementation. However, should the U.S. proceed with relinquishing its leadership role, it would mark a major symbolic shift in NATO’s power balance, altering an alliance that has anchored European security since World War II.
The potential move comes as the Trump administration has pursued broader cuts in federal government spending and personnel. Both Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth have previously stated that the U.S. expects European allies to take on greater responsibility for their own defense.
The proposal aligns with Trump’s long-standing criticism of NATO, where he has repeatedly urged member states to increase their defense contributions. Since his first term, Trump has argued that European nations rely too heavily on American military support without matching it with sufficient financial commitments.
If the U.S. withdraws from the Supreme Allied Commander role, European NATO members could face increased pressure to coordinate military strategy independently. Analysts suggest that this shift may prompt France, Germany, or the United Kingdom to push for greater leadership within the alliance.
Beyond NATO, the broader restructuring effort under review includes a proposal to merge five of the U.S. military’s 11 combatant commands as part of a cost-cutting initiative. The officials cited in the report indicated that these potential changes aim to streamline operations and reduce expenses amid the administration’s push for a leaner military footprint abroad.
While the Trump administration’s consideration of this move underscores its focus on reducing U.S. commitments in Europe, questions remain about how NATO allies would respond. The role of Supreme Allied Commander has been central to U.S. influence within NATO, shaping military strategy and ensuring coordination in major security challenges, including deterrence against Russia and counterterrorism operations.
As discussions continue within the Pentagon, NATO partners are likely to seek clarity on Washington’s long-term strategic intentions, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.