US Urges Europe, Canada to Take Lead on Conventional Defense, NATO Envoy Says

The United States is urging European allies and Canada to assume a larger share of responsibility for conventional defense within NATO, according to Matthew Whitaker, the US ambassador to the alliance.

Whitaker said a greater role for European and Canadian forces in conventional defense would allow the United States to redirect military resources toward potential challenges in the Pacific region, according to Anadolu Agency.

The statement reflects a broader push by Washington for NATO members to increase their own defense capabilities and spending, a theme that has featured prominently in discussions among alliance members in recent years.

Further details on the specific timeline, scope of the proposed shift in responsibilities, or reactions from European and Canadian officials were not immediately available.