Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

US Urges Germany to Lead NATO Command Role

11/21/2025

50 9

Summary

Story summary

Matthew Whitaker, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, urged Germany to assume the NATO Europe commander role, a post traditionally held by an American.
Speaking at the Berlin Security Conference, he expressed hope that Germany would eventually volunteer for the position of Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
He said European military capabilities should match those of the United States and called this an aspirational goal for the long term.

1 of 1

Story summary

Matthew Whitaker, the U.S. ambassador to NATO, urged Germany to assume the NATO Europe commander role, a post traditionally held by an American.
Speaking at the Berlin Security Conference, he expressed hope that Germany would eventually volunteer for the position of Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
He said European military capabilities should match those of the United States and called this an aspirational goal for the long term.