US ambassador to NATO: ‘We need strong allies, not dependents’
The Hill
by Sarah DavisFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. Ambassador to NATO emphasized the importance of fostering "strong allies, not dependents" during a discussion at the Munich Security Conference. Speaking about NATO defense spending contributions, the ambassador stressed the need for member countries to take greater responsibility for their security, rather than relying solely on the United States. This comes amid concerns over whether all NATO members are meeting their financial obligations under the alliance's agreements.
The Czech Republic has notably refused to increase its defense spending above 2% of its GDP, despite NATO's push for member states to meet this target. The ambassador's remarks highlight a growing divide within NATO about how much each country should contribute and what is expected in return. Some nations, like Poland and Lithuania, have been vocal advocates for higher defense spending, while others have faced economic challenges or political resistance to increasing their military budgets.
This issue matters significantly to readers interested in politics because it underscores the broader tensions within NATO regarding burden-sharing and collective security. The U.S. has long sought to reduce its financial and military overreach in Europe, and this stance reflects a shift in American priorities under the current administration. For NATO to remain effective, members must work together to ensure a fair distribution of responsibilities—both financially and strategically—if they aim to maintain a unified front against emerging threats.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/14/2026