The former NATO Secretary General warned that the Alliance cannot exist without the U.S., and Europe is unable to independently replace the collective defense system.
Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that the existing rift between the U.S. and Europe is the deepest it has been in a long time.
He stated this on the program Agenda Special, writes SVT, as reported by bb.lv.
Stoltenberg warned that the Alliance will not survive without the U.S., while simultaneously asserting that the EU cannot replace NATO.
"No, not the NATO we have known for almost 80 years, as it is about Europe and the U.S. standing together against all threats. That is why it is so important to do everything possible to prevent a split between Europe and the U.S.," he said.
However, Stoltenberg also cautioned against excessive speculation regarding NATO's future.
"Moscow should have no uncertainty about our readiness to defend each other," he said.
Stoltenberg also rejected the idea that the EU could replace NATO.
"I have great respect for the EU, but I do not believe that the EU can replace NATO when it comes to collective security and defense guarantees," he added.
In this context, it is worth recalling that the U.S. Department of Defense publicly announced a reduction in the number of American brigades in Europe from 4 to 3, as was the case in 2021.
NATO expresses confidence that the withdrawal of U.S. troops will not undermine the Alliance's defense plans in Europe.
In the editorial's opinion, Jens Stoltenberg's statements reflect the growing concern of European allies due to changing U.S. policies. Despite assurances of maintaining unity, the topic of potential weakening of American involvement in European security is becoming increasingly sensitive for NATO.
