NATO conducts large-scale combat drills in Romania as U.S. military stance shifts under Trump

NATO is conducting its largest combat exercises of 2025 in Romania, involving 10,000 troops from nine nations. The drills aim to enhance rapid deployment capabilities amid concerns over the U.S. military's commitment to Europe under President Trump. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called for increased military spending from allies, suggesting a shift in U.S. security priorities. This has raised doubts about America's traditional role as Europe's security guarantor. The exercises include live-fire training and mock assaults, with participation from multiple NATO countries. Romania has become more significant in NATO's eastern strategy, contributing military support to Ukraine and hosting training for allied pilots.