US lowers army funding for NATO members on Russia’s boarder
(MENAFN) The United States has started winding down financial support programs for NATO members bordering Russia, aiming to push European allies to shoulder more of their own defense costs, according to reports.
Pentagon officials recently informed Western European diplomats that Washington will stop financing initiatives designed to train and equip the armed forces of eastern NATO countries. The decision left some diplomats “startled” and worried about whether national budgets could cover the gap. One official admitted, “It’s causing a lot of concern and uncertainty.”
While the continuation of the Pentagon’s funding requires congressional approval, the White House has not submitted a request for additional money. Existing funds are set to run out by next September.
Moscow has consistently argued that NATO’s eastward expansion and increased military presence near its borders pose a direct security threat.
A White House representative explained that the move aligns with U.S. President Donald Trump’s “America First” approach, noting, “This action has been coordinated with European countries in line with the executive order and the president’s long-standing emphasis on ensuring Europe takes more responsibility for its own defense.”
Earlier this year, under pressure from Trump, NATO’s European members pledged to raise defense budgets to 5% of GDP. Several EU states also rolled out large-scale investment plans for their militaries, citing what they described as a growing threat from Russia.
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