ANTALYA, Türkiye: Türkiye has warned that any reduction in the United States’ role in Europe’s security framework could have serious consequences, calling for careful coordination among allies to avoid instability.
According to Reuters, discussions are underway among partners on how to manage a possible shift in Washington’s involvement, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan cautioning against an unplanned transition.
“We are very much discussing how to manage or mitigate the withdrawal of the U.S. from the European security architecture. Not totally, but partially. Even a partial withdrawal… would be very destructive for Europe if it’s not done in a coordinated way,” Fidan said during a panel at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.
His remarks come amid growing tensions within NATO, following comments by US President Donald Trump about potentially reducing Washington’s commitments to the alliance.
Europe’s security landscape
The situation has been further complicated by disagreements among European allies over their response to the conflict involving Iran, including decisions related to securing key shipping routes.
Fidan also highlighted concerns about divisions within NATO, saying some European Union members were acting independently within the alliance framework.
“You want to be a separate EU organisation within NATO? Well America said ‘I’m letting you go, cutting off your ties’,” he said.
He urged allies to use an upcoming NATO summit in Ankara as an opportunity to rebuild cooperation with Washington, while preparing for possible changes in US engagement.
Officials say any adjustment in the US role would need to be carefully managed to maintain stability across Europe’s security landscape.
