US pushes Europe for NATO defense lead by 2027; deadline deemed unrealistic

• The US wants Europe to assume the majority of NATO's conventional defense capabilities, from intelligence to missiles, by 2027.
• Pentagon officials informed European diplomats that the US is not satisfied with Europe's current defense capability boost.
• If Europe fails to meet the 2027 deadline, the US may withdraw from some NATO defense coordination mechanisms.
• European officials consider the 2027 deadline unrealistic due to production backlogs and the challenge of replacing unique US capabilities.
• The demand aligns with the Trump administration's consistent push for European allies to increase their defense contributions.

Why It Matters: US demands Europe lead NATO defense by 2027, reshaping transatlantic security.