UK denies rumors US is giving up command of NATO forces in Europe
Photo: British Defense Secretary John Healey (Getty Images)
The United Kingdom has rejected speculation that the United States might relinquish command of NATO forces in Europe. This position has been held since the founding of the Alliance, according to British Defense Secretary John Healey.
The Defense Secretary told reporters that "America is not stepping away" from NATO. He emphasized that the commander-in-chief of NATO forces in Europe will be a representative of the United States, known in military terms as SACEUR (Supreme Allied Commander Europe).
This is the highest officer position in NATO. American commanders have held this position for almost 75 years. In December 1950, Dwight Eisenhower became the first Supreme Allied Commander in Europe.
Currently, this position is held by US Army General Christopher Cavoli. He will take over NATO forces in Europe on July 4, 2022. Cavoli is completing his three-year term in office this summer.
Earlier, NBC News reported that the administration of US President Donald Trump may abandon NATO's command in Europe.
Even before his re-election as US President, Donald Trump criticized NATO and did not rule out the possibility of withdrawing the country from the Alliance.
Trump also criticizes European NATO members for not spending enough on defense. He wants NATO members to increase spending to 5% of GDP.
