The United States defense secretary, Hegseth, is expected not to attend next month’s NATO defence ministers meeting in Brussels, Chinese state media reported on 29 January, citing unnamed sources. The Pentagon and NATO have declined to comment, and the report gave no reason for a potential absence.
If confirmed, Hegseth’s absence would mark the second high‑level American no‑show at NATO ministerial gatherings in recent weeks. In December the US secretary of state, Rubio, did not attend a NATO foreign ministers meeting, a pattern that allied capitals are likely watching closely as a sign of fraying engagement.
The development comes amid a period of heightened friction between the Trump administration and NATO and several of its members. Washington’s recent posture toward allies — including an episode in which the administration publicly expressed interest in Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark — has already raised questions about US diplomatic tone and priorities in Europe.
Allies view ministerial meetings not as ceremonial but as crucial moments to coordinate defence planning, burden‑sharing and responses to crises from deterrence in the Baltics to support for Ukraine. A US no‑show risks sending an awkward political message about Washington’s willingness to lead or participate in collective decision‑making at a sensitive moment for transatlantic security.
Former NATO spokesperson Vana Lunjescu told state media that a confirmed absence would send a negative signal at a time of strained transatlantic relations and could deepen allied concerns about US commitments to the alliance. Diplomats and defence officials will now be gauging whether the absence reflects scheduling, domestic politics, or a deliberate policy choice — and what follow‑on steps will be necessary to reassure European partners.