Pentagon circulates loyalty questionnaire to NATO partners amid Trump-focused agenda

A recently obtained three-page questionnaire from the Pentagon asks NATO members whether they have publicly supported US foreign-policy priorities and if they align with the “strong, clear, and quiet” approach cited by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The document also inquires whether countries will reduce or eliminate restrictions on US base use and over-flight rights, an issue that has intensified after several European states imposed limits following the war on Iran that started on February 28.

The questionnaire, part of a six-month review of US forces in Europe, references President Trump’s “NATO 3.0” concept, urging European allies to assume more defence responsibility and accept a reduced US role. Critics say the questionnaire conflates NATO’s collective defence mission with unilateral US operations and could pressure allies to align politically with the White House. Spain is singled out for closing its airspace and denying US base access, prompting Trump to threaten trade retaliation. The Pentagon has not responded, while a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense noted the administration’s strong focus on loyalty from both domestic personnel and foreign partners.