House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers said on Mar. 18 that while NATO allies are increasing their defense commitments, continued U.S. military leadership in Europe is essential to address ongoing security challenges. Rogers made these remarks during a hearing focused on the U.S. military posture and security issues in Europe.
The topic is significant as Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues and the United States faces multiple global threats, including from Iran and China. Rogers said managing these threats requires a stronger NATO and cautioned against reducing American forces in Europe before European allies are fully prepared to assume greater responsibility.
"Fortunately, thanks to the leadership of President Trump, our Allies are beginning to step up," Rogers said. He pointed out that NATO members have committed to spending five percent of their gross domestic product on defense by 2035 but warned that rearming and building necessary capabilities will take time.
Rogers criticized suggestions within the Department of Defense for an early reduction of U.S. troops in Europe, saying there is no clear plan for such a transition and that it could create risks for deterrence against Russia. "That is not a strategy for a stronger, more credible NATO," he said. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining two rotational U.S. armored brigades in Poland as key elements of NATO’s conventional defense, suggesting it may be time to consider permanently stationing them there.
Rogers emphasized that the presence of U.S. forces in Europe supports not only European security but also broader American interests by enabling operations elsewhere, such as CENTCOM and AFRICOM regions. He cited Romania's cooperation with the United States as an example of valuable allied support.
He further stated: "We also should not prematurely step away from Ukraine." According to Rogers, Ukrainian forces are already helping degrade Russian military threats and supporting U.S. partners with counter-drone technology.
The House Armed Services Committee includes members such as Reps. Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner, and Robert J. Wittman according to the official website. The committee oversees national defense programs and agencies under its jurisdiction defined by Rule X of the House Rules according to its official website. It has influenced legislation through processes like the National Defense Authorization Act for community project funding according to its official website and operates under congressional oversight for military affairs according to its official website. Rogers has served as chair during both the 118th and 119th Congresses according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Rogers concluded his remarks by warning against any actions that might signal weakness or lack of resolve toward Russia: "Vladimir Putin interprets a lack of American resolve as an opportunity. We should not give him one—neither in Ukraine, nor in NATO."
