United Kingdom Defence Secretary John Healey has reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to NATO and its leadership of the alliance’s top military post. Speaking on Thursday at Wellington Barracks, Healey addressed recent speculation suggesting that President Donald Trump’s administration might consider stepping back from its traditional leadership role in NATO.

“America is not stepping away,” Healey said firmly, putting to rest concerns about a potential shift in military leadership. “So for me there is no vacancy, there is no question that it's not and should not be an American Saceur,” he added, referencing the position of Supreme Allied Commander Europe (Saceur), which has been held exclusively by American generals since NATO’s establishment.

Healey’s remarks come in response to reports that President Trump had considered replacing the current US officer in charge of NATO operations. However, his statement emphasized continuity and stability in transatlantic defense leadership.

He further explained that, in discussions with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, it was made clear that while the US remains firmly committed to NATO, it also expects European allies—particularly nations like the UK—to increase their defense efforts. “The Americans have been the cornerstone of NATO,” Healey said, “and at the same time, they are rightly challenging European nations like the UK to step up and do more.”

These assurances serve to strengthen confidence in the alliance’s unity, as the US under President Trump’s renewed leadership continues to demand greater engagement from European partners while upholding its leading role in NATO’s strategic operations.