European nations have 'gotten the message' from U.S. President Donald Trump and are now moving to fully implement agreements on the use of military bases, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Monday, signalling a shift in transatlantic dynamics amid the Iran war.
Speaking at a European Political Community summit in Armenia, Rutte acknowledged growing frustration in Washington but said European allies were responding to U.S. demands.
'Yes, there has been some disappointment from the U.S. side, but Europeans have listened,' Rutte told reporters. 'They are now making sure that all the bilateral basing agreements are being implemented.'
Trump has repeatedly criticised NATO members for what he sees as insufficient support in the conflict with Iran, intensifying pressure on European allies to contribute more directly to military efforts.
In a move that underscored tensions, the United States last week announced plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, raising questions about Washington's long-term military footprint in Europe.
The decision has been widely interpreted as both a warning and a recalibration of U.S. commitments, aimed at pushing allies to shoulder a greater share of the burden.
While several NATO countries have moved to accommodate U.S. requests, not all allies are aligned.
Spain has stated that military bases on its territory cannot be used for operations related to the Iran war, highlighting ongoing divisions within the alliance.
However, Rutte pointed to a broad group of countries including Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Britain, France and Germany that are implementing agreements to provide access to bases and logistical support.
Beyond base access, NATO allies are also stepping up military readiness in anticipation of potential escalation.
Rutte said 'more and more' European nations are pre-positioning naval assets such as minehunters and minesweepers near the Gulf, indicating preparations for a possible next phase of the conflict.
Several countries have also expressed willingness to participate in a future mission to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz once hostilities subside a critical concern given the waterway's importance to global energy supplies.
The developments underscore a broader test for NATO unity as geopolitical tensions rise and the Iran conflict reshapes strategic priorities.
While European allies appear to be adjusting to Washington's expectations, differences over the scope and nature of involvement remain.
For now, however, the message from Washington appears to be having an effect with Europe moving, albeit unevenly, to align more closely with U.S. demands.
(with inputs from Reuters)