The United States intends to phase out security assistance programs for European armies stationed along the border with Russia as Washington calls on the continent to pay more for its own defense.

This is reported by  the Financial Times, reports  Censor.NET .

Last week, Pentagon officials told European diplomats that the United States would no longer fund programs to train and equip the armed forces of Eastern European countries that would be on the front lines in any conflict with Russia, the publication’s sources familiar with the matter told the outlet.

Spending for the Pentagon program, which falls under the authority known as Section 333, must be approved by Congress, but the Trump administration has not requested additional funds. The funds already approved will be available through the end of September 2026.

A White House spokesman said the move was in line with President Donald Trump’s efforts to “reassess and reallocate” foreign aid and was in line with an executive order he issued on his first day in office.

“This action was coordinated with European countries in accordance with the executive order and the president’s long-standing emphasis on Europe taking greater responsibility for its defense,” the spokesman said.

Under pressure from Trump, US NATO allies agreed in June to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP.

Senate aides estimate that the funding cuts under Section 333 would affect a program with a global budget of more than $1 billion, potentially cutting hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. aid to countries bordering Russia.

The Pentagon has not told lawmakers the exact amount that will be cut.

“European governments were surprised by the information and are trying to get more details from Washington, according to two diplomats briefed on the discussions,” the FT adds.

Europe is also trying to assess the potential consequences of the US decision and whether it will be able to compensate for American funds to strengthen European security, one diplomat told the FT.

Author:  Valeria Sushkova Джерело: https://censor.net/ua/n3572308

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