The US is increasingly turning to the Ukrainian experience of waging war, recognizing the need to adapt its defense strategy. At the same time, Washington plans to reduce its military presence in Europe, which is causing discussions among allies. NATO emphasizes the need to strengthen the role of European countries in the security of the region. Against this background, the question of the balance of responsibility between the US and Europe in the new conditions arises.
Ukraine's experience must be integrated into the US defense model - Volker
Former US Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker said, that the Ukrainian experience of waging war must be integrated into the modern defense model of the United States. He emphasized that the nature of combat operations has changed significantly, and traditional systems that were considered key a few years ago are no longer so effective. According to him, examples of using expensive systems, such as Patriot, against cheap drones demonstrate the economic inefficiency of such an approach. Volker emphasized that the new reality of war requires adaptation and rethinking of priorities in the defense sector.
He noted that Ukraine was able to create effective and relatively cheap technologies to combat drones, which actually changed the approach to warfare. According to him, these solutions allow to significantly reduce costs while maintaining high efficiency. Volker emphasized that the rejection of expensive systems is not necessary, but they need to be supplemented with innovative solutions. He also warned that without the integration of Ukrainian experience, the United States and its allies risk losing the effectiveness of their defense strategy in modern conflicts.
Trump announced a larger withdrawal of US troops from Germany
US President Donald Trump said that he intends to withdraw significantly more American troops from Germany than the previously announced 5 thousand. Speaking to reporters, he did not specify the reasons for this decision, but emphasized the scale of the upcoming reduction. This statement was made after the Pentagon announced a partial reduction in the contingent. The decision caused a significant resonance both in the United States and among European allies.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius reacted with restraint, saying that such a step was expected and stressed the importance of strengthening European defense autonomy. At the same time, he emphasized the mutual benefit of the presence of American troops in Europe. In Washington, the decision drew criticism from both parties, who expressed concern about the signals it could send to Moscow. Some politicians believe that the reduction of the military presence could affect the balance of security in Europe.
NATO commented on the reduction of US troops in Europe
NATO spokeswoman Allison Hart said, that the Alliance is in close contact with the United States regarding the decision to withdraw some troops from Germany. According to her, the parties are working to clarify the details and assess the consequences of this step. She emphasized that the situation highlights the need for European countries to increase their own defense spending. It was also noted that the allies have already agreed to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.
Hart stressed that NATO is confident in its ability to provide deterrence and defense even in the face of changes in the deployment of American forces. She noted that the Alliance is moving towards a model where a stronger Europe complements common security. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius also said that European countries must take more responsibility for their own security.
Volker: peace talks from Russia are a fiction
Former US Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker saidthat the peace talks being held by Russia have no real content and are only a tool for achieving strategic goals. According to him, Moscow is using the diplomatic process to stall for time and ease international pressure. He stressed that such negotiations are not aimed at achieving real peace. Volker also stressed that this creates the illusion of progress without real changes on the battlefield.
He noted that such tactics allow Russia to simultaneously conduct hostilities and shape a political agenda that is beneficial to itself. According to his estimates, Western partners should evaluate signals from Moscow more critically. Volker emphasized that real negotiations are possible only if there is a real willingness to compromise. He also drew attention to the need to increase pressure to force Russia to change its position.
The US budget for 2027 does not provide new funds for security assistance to Ukraine
The draft US budget for 2027 does not provide funding for the USAI program, which provides for the purchase of weapons for Ukraine. This became known during hearings in the Senate, where representatives of the Ministry of Defense confirmed the absence of new appropriations. Acting Pentagon Finance Director Jules Gerst said: “Yes, that’s right. There is no funding for USAI in this budget.” This means that new deliveries within the framework of this program are not currently planned.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stressed that Washington expects greater participation from European countries in financing aid to Ukraine.
“We want Europe to step up, finance and shoulder this burden,” he said.
According to him, Europe’s economic potential allows it to play a greater role in supporting Ukraine. At the same time, it was noted that in 2026, European countries will provide the bulk of the assistance, which indicates a change in the balance of responsibility between the allies.
Photo: unn.ua
Author: Danylo Pievchev