Pentagon sidelines UK, France, and Baltics from key NATO strategy meeting
The Trump administration is excluding major allies, including the UK, France, and Baltic states, from a Pentagon-led NATO working group in Poland. This exclusion follows Washington’s recent threats to penalize allies not meeting defense spending targets, raising concerns about alliance cohesion amid Russian aggression.
Key points
- The US is excluding the UK, France, and Baltic nations from a upcoming NATO meeting in Poland focused on alliance strategy.
- Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby is spearheading the gathering, which six diplomats describe as a working group on NATO’s future.
- Excluded nations are significant defense spenders and key alliance partners, leading to diplomatic confusion over the selection criteria.
- The move follows previous US threats to use a 'naughty and nice list' to pressure governments aligning with Washington’s priorities.
- Diplomats from excluded countries question if the administration is playing favorites, potentially splintering the alliance.
Background
This development follows a series of US actions in 2026 that have strained transatlantic ties. In August, Washington publicly rebuked European allies for capability gaps, urging faster investment in conventional weapons to support a potential US troop drawdown of 25,000 personnel from Europe. Simultaneously, the Iran conflict diverted US air defenses and ships, straining munitions stocks and alliance commitments. These events occurred alongside a push for European allies to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, with some nations already meeting 3.5% targets.
Why it matters
The exclusion of major defense spenders from a core strategy meeting signals a shift in US alliance management, moving from collective consensus to selective engagement. This could undermine NATO’s unity at a time when the alliance faces increased Russian aggression and depleted weapons stockpiles, potentially accelerating a reorientation of US defense posture in Europe.
What to watch
Diplomats from excluded nations are seeking clarification on the criteria for inclusion and the purpose of the meetings. The outcome of the Poland gathering may influence future US decisions on troop withdrawals and weapons sales, while excluded allies may adjust their defense policies to regain favor with Washington.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Politico