The United States withdraws its aircraft carrier strike group and over 50 aircraft from NATO's command structure.

U.S. Withdraws Carrier Strike Group and Over 60 Aircraft from NATO Command Structure

The United States has rescinded part of its military commitments to NATO. According to reports, the Pentagon has already withdrawn one carrier strike group, a bomber task force, and more than 50 fighter jets from the NATO command system. This is just the beginning.

Citing three sources within NATO, the Frankfurter Rundschau reported that the U.S. has immediately terminated its commitment to provide critical naval and air military support to NATO. Specifically, this involves the carrier strike group, long-range bombers, and the deployment of over 50 fighter jets.

This unexpected move by the U.S. aims to pressure NATO allies to address existing defense gaps ahead of the summit in early July. Experts assess that while European allies cannot fully close the gap, they can still achieve partial objectives. Under current procedures, NATO member states typically allocate less than half of their actual military forces to be deployed under the authority of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR).

In response to inquiries from the Frankfurter Rundschau, a NATO representative stated that in the past, member states had "over-relied on American military strength and capabilities." He added: "But as Europe and Canada continue to increase defense spending and enhance their military capabilities, the burden-sharing landscape may shift." According to insiders within NATO, the U.S. "withdrew" relevant military forces and equipment shortly before an upcoming force allocation meeting at NATO's European Allied Command (SHAPE) at the beginning of the month, and urged allies to immediately mobilize existing resources to fill the void. It is reported that this initiative prompted several countries to make new commitments, though some gaps remain unresolved.

Under the plan, the U.S. will withdraw one-third of its NATO fighter aircraft from Europe

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868204540453897/

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