Europe Considers "Plan B" for a U.S. Exit from NATO

Some European nations are quietly preparing for the possibility of a U.S. withdrawal from NATO, according to a new report. This planning activity follows renewed criticism of the alliance by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The *Wall Street Journal* reports that a contingency plan is gaining attention among European officials. The strategy would focus on managing a sudden American exit from the 32-member military pact. In response, former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has defended the alliance's value to the United States. "The U.S. is safer with NATO than without NATO," he stated. Stoltenberg argued that the alliance gives America unmatched global influence and shared security burdens. European allies provide bases, intelligence, and soldiers for common defense. The reported planning signifies growing European concern over the future of transatlantic security. It highlights efforts to ensure NATO's survival even if its most powerful member leaves.