America's return on investment from NATO

Rubio Accuses NATO of Falling Short — Can Allies Be Counted On?

Rubio’s Straight Talk to NATO--

"Secretary of State Marco Rubio did not sugarcoat his view on NATO during a recent TV interview. He told Sean Hannity that after decades of the United States footing the bill and hosting troops in Europe, allies refused a simple request to allow U.S. forces to use their bases for Operation Epic Fury.

Rubio said this refusal shows NATO is acting like a one way street where America gives and gives and gets little in return. He suggested that after the current crisis is resolved, the United States will need to re examine what the alliance actually delivers to American security.

What Rubio Actually Said About Bases--

Rubio made a clear point. He said the U.S. did not ask European partners to fight or to strike. The ask was limited to landing rights and access to bases Americans helped pay for and maintain.

When allies answer no to that request, Rubio asked why U.S. forces are even stationed there in the first place. He reminded viewers that American presence in Europe has long been about projecting power and deterring threats far beyond the continent. If those facilities are off limits when the United States needs them, their strategic value is compromised.

This is not just a diplomatic complaint. Allowing or denying access to bases can shape how quickly the United States can respond to threats and protect American lives.

Rubio argued the United States has invested hundreds of billions of dollars and placed troops overseas to keep the peace and to deter bad actors. If allies block access during a crisis the practical benefit of those investments comes into question.

Rubio said these are questions the president will have to face when reassessing America’s relationship with NATO."

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As of February 2025, 51% of Republican or Republican-leaning voters believe that the United States does not benefit from NATO membership, in contrast to 17% of Democratic or Democratic-leaning voters.