A European temper tantrum meets a reality check.

Tensions are resurfacing within NATO as some European leaders publicly question the alliance’s structure and the United States’ role, amid renewed pressure from President Donald Trump for allies to increase defense spending. France, Germany, and other countries have voiced concerns about long-term reliance on Washington, with some officials suggesting Europe should pursue greater strategic autonomy.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg responded this week by underscoring the alliance’s continued dependence on U.S. military capabilities, warning that Europe would face significant challenges defending itself without American support. His remarks highlight longstanding debates over burden-sharing and collective defense within the alliance.

Analysts say the exchange serves as a reminder of NATO’s core principle: unity. As geopolitical competition intensifies, maintaining cohesion among member states remains central to the alliance’s credibility and deterrence posture.