Washington: The United States is set to hand over leadership of two important NATO military command posts to European allies, marking a significant shift in how the alliance shares responsibilities, according to a military source cited by Reuters.
One of the command posts is located in Naples, Italy, while the other is based in Norfolk, Virginia in the United States. Both positions have traditionally been led by American officers. Under the new plan, European officers are expected to take charge, reflecting a growing push for Europe to play a stronger role in its own defence.
The move comes as Washington encourages NATO members in Europe to take on more responsibility for regional security. It also follows long standing calls from the United States for fairer burden sharing within the alliance, especially as global security challenges continue to grow.
Sources familiar with the discussions said Italy is likely to assume leadership of the Naples based command, which oversees NATO operations in southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. Britain is expected to take over the Norfolk command, which focuses on the North Atlantic and maritime security. The transition is expected to happen gradually over the coming months.
Despite the change, the United States will continue to play a central role in NATO. It is expected to retain key strategic positions, including overall military leadership of the alliance, and maintain significant forces and capabilities in Europe.
The decision comes at a time when European NATO members are increasing defence spending and cooperation, partly in response to security concerns linked to Russia and other global threats. NATO is also preparing new initiatives, including enhanced monitoring and defence efforts in strategically sensitive regions.
Officials say the leadership change is aimed at strengthening the alliance rather than weakening it, by ensuring that European members are better prepared to manage regional security while keeping close coordination with the United States.