Kellogg proposes new defence alliance including Ukraine amid NATO criticism

Retired US Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg has called for the creation of a new defence alliance, arguing that NATO is no longer capable of effectively responding to global conflicts.

Kellogg criticised NATO allies over their stance on the conflict involving Iran, describing the alliance as “weak” and suggesting Washington should reassess its partnerships, including the possibility of leaving the bloc.

“Perhaps we need a new NATO, a new defence system,” he said, referencing Article 13 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which allows member states to withdraw one year after formal notification.

He proposed forming alliances with countries “willing to fight”, naming Japan, Australia, Poland and a rearmed Germany as potential partners and highlighted Ukraine as a proven ally.

Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo echoed similar concerns, describing the current state of NATO as “terrible” and calling for a fundamental reassessment of reliable partners for critical missions.

Debate over a possible US withdrawal from NATO has intensified following remarks by Donald Trump, who previously labelled the alliance a “paper tiger” and criticised European allies for failing to shoulder sufficient military responsibility.

Tensions escalated further on 1 April 2026, when the White House confirmed it was considering withdrawal from NATO, citing allies’ refusal to support a US operation against Iran, which Trump described as a betrayal of shared security interests.