The U.S. Department of Defense has officially begun a comprehensive review of its military presence, force posture, and basing arrangements across Europe. The initiative, first announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during the NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting in Brussels on June 18, marks a detailed assessment of America’s long-term military footprint in the region.
Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby confirmed the launch of the review on Tuesday through a post on X, stating that the process is now underway. Hegseth had previously emphasized that the exercise would be a thorough evaluation of U.S. military deployments and infrastructure in Europe.
At this stage, the Pentagon has not announced any decisions regarding troop reductions, force relocations, or base closures. Likewise, no timeline has been provided for the release of the review’s findings or recommendations.
The assessment comes amid continued calls from the Trump administration for European NATO members to assume a greater share of responsibility for the alliance’s conventional defense, as the United States reassesses its global military posture.
According to Hegseth, the review is expected to take approximately six months to complete, although it could conclude sooner. The process will incorporate recommendations from U.S. European Command and involve consultations with Congress as well as NATO allies.
Colby explained that the review is intended to support NATO’s transition toward a framework in which European nations take primary responsibility for conventional defense. He stated that the objective is to strengthen the alliance by making it more balanced, resilient, and sustainable over the long term.
The Pentagon will evaluate U.S. force posture in Europe to ensure it aligns with the priorities outlined in the 2025 National Security Strategy and the 2026 National Defense Strategy. Colby noted that the department will assess multiple options using rigorous strategic analysis, evidence-based evaluation, and a realistic understanding of current geopolitical and military conditions.
He also expressed his intention to work closely with General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, throughout the review. In addition, the Defense Department plans to maintain extensive consultations with European allies, the U.S. Congress, and other government agencies during the evaluation process.
