UK defense chief: Europe must do 'heavy lifting' for its own security

Europe must recognize that it needs to do more "heavy lifting" for its own security, the British defense secretary said Friday amid ongoing debate over NATO's role following scathing remarks by US President Donald Trump. Speaking at the London Defense Conference, a two-day annual event on defense and security, John Healey reiterated the benefits and commitments to NATO for both sides of the Atlantic.

Response to Trump

Asked about Trump's continued criticism of NATO allies and questioning of NATO's role, Healey said the alliance's "real strength" is the group of nations that is sufficiently ready to act. "I'd reflect back to the Americans, what the Americans are saying to us," said the defense chief, citing US demands that Europeans step up on security and leadership on Ukraine. "We are doing that," he said, and added: "Europe has to recognize that we've got to do more of the heavy lifting for our own security."

Trump's criticism

His remarks come amid tensions after Trump blasted NATO countries for declining to participate in efforts to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as well as for restricting access to some bases during the US-Israeli war on Iran. "NATO wasn't there when we needed them, and they won't be there if we need them again," Trump wrote on Truth Social on Thursday after meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

European response

European countries, in contrast, pointed out that Trump did not consult them before launching the war and that the US had not been attacked, which could have triggered NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause. The US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire on Tuesday, brokered by Pakistan, as a step toward a possible broader agreement to halt the conflict that the US and Israel launched on Feb. 28, which has left thousands dead and wounded.