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US Defense Secretary Skips NATO Meeting, Raising Concerns

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will skip the NATO defense ministers' meeting on February 12, marking a second consecutive absence.
Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson, notes the absence raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO.
The Pentagon has not provided a reason for Hegseth's absence.
The Trump administration emphasizes shifting military priorities and urges Europe to take greater defense responsibilities.

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Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will skip the NATO defense ministers' meeting on February 12, marking a second consecutive absence.
Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson, notes the absence raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO.
The Pentagon has not provided a reason for Hegseth's absence.
The Trump administration emphasizes shifting military priorities and urges Europe to take greater defense responsibilities.