Will the Americans Withdraw from Kosovo and Camp Bondsteel, or Will They Remain in the Balkans and Albania Forever?
Albania and Kosovo as Factors of Regional Stability
The Impact of U.S. Presidential Changes on Policy Toward Kosovo and the Role of NATO in the Region
Flamur Buçpapaj
Scientific Study for Students of the Defense Academy
Introduction
The military and political presence of the United States in the Balkans has been a key factor for regional stability since the 1990s. Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo is one of the largest U.S. bases in Europe and symbolizes the U.S. strategic commitment to the region. This analysis examines whether there is a possibility for the U.S. to withdraw from Kosovo and the Balkans or whether it will remain present for an indefinite period.
Historical and Strategic Context
The U.S. has been involved in the Balkans since the dissolution of Yugoslavia, intervening militarily in Kosovo in 1999 and assisting in the creation of new state institutions. Since then, the military presence has been a security factor for Kosovo and a powerful mechanism of influence in the region.
Geopolitical Factors and U.S. Strategic Interests
Russian and Chinese influence in the Balkans: The U.S. views the Balkans as a critical line for countering the growing influence of Russia and China in Southeastern Europe.
Relations with the EU and NATO: The stability of the Balkans is important to the U.S. as many states in the region are NATO members or aspire to join the EU and NATO.
Energy and strategic infrastructure: The Balkans serve as an important corridor for gas pipelines and infrastructure projects connecting Western Europe.
Camp Bondsteel: An Irreplaceable Strategic Point?
Camp Bondsteel is one of the most important U.S. bases in Europe and plays a key role in NATO’s military and logistical operations in the region. Although there may be restructuring or reductions in military presence, a full withdrawal is unlikely due to long-term strategic interests.
Are There Scenarios for Withdrawal?
Several factors could influence a potential U.S. withdrawal from Kosovo and the Balkans, including:
Changes in U.S. foreign policy: The Trump administration, for instance, prioritized other geopolitical areas.
Improved Kosovo-Serbia relations: A long-term solution between Kosovo and Serbia could reduce the need for a large military presence.
Military costs and efficiency: If the U.S. deems its presence in Kosovo too costly or unnecessary, it may reconsider its strategy.
Implications for Albania and the Region
Beyond Kosovo, Albania plays a crucial role in the U.S. strategy for the Balkans. As a NATO member, Albania has intensified military cooperation with the U.S., including the construction of the Kuçova airbase, which is expected to serve as a strategic hub for NATO operations in the region.
Albania as a Key Ally
Kuçova Airbase: This NATO and U.S. investment underscores Albania’s strategic importance to the Western alliance.
Strengthening military capabilities: Albania has received military aid and deployed troops in various NATO missions, demonstrating its commitment as a reliable partner.
Political and economic relations: The U.S. supports Albania through economic aid and participation in strategic infrastructure and energy projects.
U.S. Presence as a Stability Factor for the Region
In a region where Russia and China seek to expand their influence, the U.S. remains a guarantor of stability and a key partner for Balkan countries. The American presence contributes to:
Regional security: A U.S. withdrawal would create a dangerous vacuum that could be exploited by other powers.
Support for democratic reforms: U.S. involvement has helped strengthen democratic institutions in Albania, Kosovo, and other Balkan countries.
Fight against corruption and organized crime: The U.S. has actively supported anti-corruption reforms in Albania and the region through sanctions and technical assistance.
Could U.S. Strategy in the Balkans Change?
Although the U.S. has a strong commitment to the region, its foreign policy could shift depending on several factors:
Global developments: If the U.S. faces greater challenges in the Pacific (e.g., tensions with China) or the Middle East, it may redirect its military resources.
Strengthening of the European Union: If the EU becomes more capable of managing Balkan crises, the U.S. may reduce its military presence, though not necessarily its political influence.
Regional agreements: If Kosovo-Serbia relations improve and Albania and North Macedonia make further progress in EU integration, the U.S. may scale back its military role while maintaining its diplomatic influence.
Future Perspectives: Possible Scenarios for U.S. Presence in the Balkans
Analyzing historical, geopolitical, and economic factors, we can outline three main scenarios for the future of U.S. presence in Kosovo, Albania, and the Balkans:
Scenario 1: Continued and Strengthened Presence
In this scenario, the U.S. not only remains in the Balkans but expands its influence for several reasons:
Increasing tensions with Russia and China: The U.S. may see the Balkans as a strategic front against Moscow and Beijing’s influence.
Strengthening ties with NATO and the EU: The U.S. may assist more Balkan countries in joining the EU and enhancing military capabilities through NATO.
Investments in infrastructure and energy: The U.S. may expand investments in projects like gas pipelines and telecommunications networks to reduce dependence on Russia and China.
In this scenario, Camp Bondsteel remains irreplaceable, while Albania becomes a new strategic hub for NATO, especially with the Kuçova airbase. Scenario 2: Reduction of Military Presence but Maintenance of Diplomatic and Economic Influence
This is an intermediate scenario where the U.S. reduces its military presence but continues to play a significant diplomatic and economic role. Several factors could push the U.S. in this direction, including:
New commitments in other regions: If tensions with China in Asia or Iran in the Middle East escalate, the U.S. may shift resources away from the Balkans.
European leaders taking more responsibility: If the EU strengthens its role in the region, the U.S. might withdraw militarily, leaving security in the hands of European forces.
Long-term agreements between Kosovo and Serbia: A final agreement between the two could reduce the need for a significant American presence on the ground.
In this case, the U.S. would remain a key player in diplomacy and investments in the Balkans but without a substantial military presence.
Scenario 3: Gradual Withdrawal from the Balkans
This is the least likely scenario, but it cannot be entirely ruled out. It could happen if:
The U.S. sees the Balkans as a lower priority and decides to focus its resources on larger conflicts.
Balkan countries resolve their own issues, making stability sustainable without an American presence.
A U.S. administration shifts policy and withdraws from global commitments.
In this scenario, the U.S. would maintain diplomatic and economic relations with the region but without a strong military or strategic presence. However, this scenario is unlikely due to the numerous American interests in the Balkans.
The Role of Albania and Kosovo in U.S. Policy
Albania and Kosovo have shown strong commitment to the U.S. and NATO, making a full American withdrawal from the region difficult.
Albania as a key NATO ally: With the development of the Kuçovë air base and participation in NATO operations, Albania plays a crucial role in U.S. security strategy.
Kosovo as a strategic point: The U.S. strongly supports Kosovo as an independent state and would not risk its stability by withdrawing.
Strong political and economic ties: Albania and Kosovo are among the most pro-American countries in the world, and the U.S. would not jeopardize this valuable alliance.
Conclusion
Analyzing all factors, it is clear that the U.S. is unlikely to fully withdraw from the Balkans. The most realistic scenario would involve a restructuring of its presence, shifting focus from a large military footprint to a stronger diplomatic, economic, and strategic engagement.
However, factors such as the Russian threat, Chinese influence, and NATO’s importance in the region make a complete withdrawal difficult. The Bondsteel camp in Kosovo and the air base in Kuçovë indicate that the U.S. has long-term plans for the region.
Ultimately, despite potential changes, the U.S. seems set to remain a key player in the Balkans for many years to come.
The Impact of External Factors on U.S. Presence in the Balkans
To better understand the future of U.S. presence in Kosovo, Albania, and the Balkans, several external factors influencing U.S. strategic decisions must be considered.
Russia and the Balkans
Russia has a significant interest in obstructing NATO expansion and American influence in the Balkans. This is evident in several ways:
Support for Serbia: Russia has been a strong ally of Serbia and continues to oppose Kosovo’s independence, using its diplomatic influence to block Kosovo’s membership in international organizations.
Influence in Republika Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Serbian leaders in Bosnia have close ties with Russia, which supports them in creating tensions and destabilizing the region.
Hybrid warfare and disinformation: Russia frequently uses propaganda to influence public opinion in the Balkans, spreading anti-American and anti-NATO narratives.
The U.S. presence serves as a counterbalance to Russian influence, and an American withdrawal from the region would create space for Moscow to strengthen its hold.
China and Its Economic Strategy in the Balkans
Unlike Russia, China does not seek to destabilize the Balkans but rather uses its economic power to exert influence:
Infrastructure investments: China has financed major projects in Serbia, North Macedonia, and Montenegro through the “Belt and Road Initiative.”
Economic dependence: Some Balkan countries have taken significant loans from China, creating long-term financial dependency.
Technology and 5G: China has attempted to expand its influence in the technology sector through companies like Huawei, but the U.S. has opposed its involvement in strategic networks in the Balkans.
The U.S. views China’s growing presence in the Balkans as a challenge and may strengthen its presence in the region to counterbalance China’s economic influence.
The Role of the European Union
The EU has been a significant actor in the Balkans but lacks the same military and strategic power as the U.S.
Integration of Western Balkan countries: The EU has promised membership to Kosovo, Albania, and other states, but the process is slow.
Economic development and EU funds: The EU is the largest investor in the Balkans, but its slow decision-making processes have created space for other influences.
Relations with the U.S.: If the EU strengthens its role in the Balkans, the U.S. might reduce its military presence, leaving the EU to take more responsibility for regional stability.
The U.S. and the EU remain partners, but if the EU fails to manage Balkan affairs effectively, the U.S. will need to maintain a strong role to ensure stability. Albania and Kosovo as Factors of Regional Stability
Beyond the American Factor: Albania and Kosovo’s Role in the Balkans
In addition to the American influence, Albania and Kosovo play a crucial role in maintaining balance in the Balkans.
Albania as a Pro-Western Regional Leader
Albania has demonstrated commitment to NATO and the U.S., contributing to international security operations.
Tirana serves as a political hub for international relations in the region, mediating dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia.
With projects like the Kuçovë Air Base, Albania is becoming a significant strategic point for NATO.
Kosovo and Its Relations with the U.S.
U.S. support for Kosovo is strong: since its declaration of independence, the U.S. has been a key defender of Kosovo on the international stage.
American military presence is vital for security: Camp Bondsteel remains a key base for Kosovo’s and the region’s stability.
Dialogue with Serbia: With U.S. assistance, Kosovo and Serbia may reach a long-term agreement, though the process remains challenging.
Could There Be Surprises in U.S. Policy Toward the Balkans?
While the U.S. has been a consistent supporter of Kosovo and Albania, its foreign policy could shift due to internal and external factors.
Changes in U.S. administrations: Each new administration may have different priorities. A president focusing more on Asia or the Middle East could reduce attention to the Balkans.
New international crises: If the U.S. becomes involved in a major global conflict, such as a potential war in Taiwan or the Middle East, its resources could be redirected.
Regional stability: If Kosovo and Serbia reach a historic agreement and the region becomes more stable, the U.S. may reduce its military presence.
Conclusion: The U.S. Remains, But With a Flexible Approach
Strategic analysis suggests that the U.S. has a long-term interest in the Balkans and is unlikely to withdraw completely. However, its presence may evolve:
Militarily: The U.S. will maintain key bases like Bondsteel in Kosovo and Kuçovë in Albania but may reduce troop numbers.
Diplomatically: It will continue mediating regional disputes, especially between Kosovo and Serbia.
Economically: It will focus on strategic investments, particularly in energy and technology, to counter Russian and Chinese influence.
Thus, while the U.S. may adjust its presence in the Balkans, it will not leave, as the region’s strategic importance remains high.
Future Prospects for U.S.-Kosovo-Albania Relations
Based on strategic analysis, we can predict the future of American presence in Kosovo, Albania, and the broader Balkans.
Camp Bondsteel: A Key Strategic Point
Camp Bondsteel in Kosovo is the largest U.S. military base in the region and serves several crucial functions:
Preventing instability in the Balkans: The U.S. military presence helps deter new conflicts between Kosovo and Serbia.
Supporting NATO and KFOR: The U.S. is the primary contributor to KFOR, NATO’s mission in Kosovo.
Regional monitoring: Due to its location, Bondsteel plays a crucial role in tracking activities by Russia, China, and other actors in the Balkans.
There are no indications that the U.S. will close Bondsteel in the near future. On the contrary, the base is expected to be modernized and play a greater role in U.S. regional strategy.
Albania and the Kuçovë Air Base
Albania is a strong ally of the U.S. and NATO. The Kuçovë Air Base, modernized with NATO support, will serve several key functions:
Hosting NATO military aircraft: This will enhance air defense capabilities in the region.
Training allied forces: Albania will become an important center for military training.
Countering Russian and Chinese threats: The base will allow NATO and the U.S. to monitor Russian activities in the Adriatic Sea and limit Chinese influence in the Balkans.
Kosovo-U.S. Relations: What Might Change?
Although the U.S. has been Kosovo’s strongest supporter, recent challenges have emerged:
Agreement with Serbia: The U.S. is pressuring Kosovo to make compromises with Serbia, causing tensions with Kosovo’s government.
Association of Serb Municipalities: Washington expects Kosovo to implement past agreements, while Kosovo’s leadership remains hesitant.
Changes in U.S. administrations: Each new president may adopt a different approach toward Kosovo.
Despite some tensions, U.S. support for Kosovo remains strong and long-term.
Will the U.S. Withdraw From the Balkans?
A comprehensive analysis of strategic factors suggests that the U.S. will not withdraw from the Balkans, but its presence may change in form.
Partial withdrawal scenario: The U.S. may reduce troop numbers but maintain key military bases like Bondsteel and Kuçovë.
Expansion scenario: If tensions with Russia escalate, the U.S. may further strengthen its presence in the Balkans.
Transfer of responsibilities to the EU: If the EU becomes more capable of managing security in the Balkans, the U.S. might shift some responsibilities to European allies.
However, given the Balkans’ strategic importance, the U.S. is unlikely to completely withdraw from Kosovo, Albania, or the broader region.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. will remain in Kosovo and the Balkans for the long term, but it may adjust its strategy and presence.
Camp Bondsteel and the Kuçovë base will continue to be key strategic points for U.S. and NATO interests.
Kosovo-U.S. relations will remain strong, but Kosovo may face pressure to compromise in its negotiations with Serbia.
Albania will play an increasingly significant role in NATO’s strategy, strengthening its position as a reliable U.S. partner.
Russia, China, and the EU will continue to influence U.S. strategy in the Balkans, but the U.S. will remain the dominant actor in the region.
U.S. policy toward Kosovo and the Balkans has historically been stable and is expected to continue adapting to global and regional developments. U.S. Policy Towards Kosovo and the Balkans: Continuity and Potential Changes
Historical Continuity in U.S. Policy Towards Kosovo
The U.S. policy towards Kosovo and the Balkans has historically remained stable despite changes in administrations in Washington. However, each president may have a different approach to foreign policy priorities, influencing relations with Kosovo and NATO, as well as regional stability.
Past U.S. Administrations and Their Policies on Kosovo
Bill Clinton (1993-2001)
Strongly supported NATO’s intervention in Kosovo in 1999.
Promoted the presence of U.S. and NATO forces in Kosovo after the war.
George W. Bush (2001-2009)
One of the strongest supporters of Kosovo’s independence.
In 2008, the U.S. was among the first countries to recognize Kosovo’s independence.
Provided strong diplomatic and military support to Kosovo.
Barack Obama (2009-2017)
Focused more on the Middle East rather than the Balkans.
Maintained stable support for Kosovo but without major advancements in strengthening the partnership.
Donald Trump (2017-2021)
Attempted to mediate an economic agreement between Kosovo and Serbia (Washington Agreement, 2020).
Did not prioritize the Balkans in foreign policy but maintained a military presence in the region.
Joe Biden (2021-2025)
A longtime supporter of Kosovo since the 1999 war.
Strongly advocated for Kosovo’s sovereignty and Euro-Atlantic integration.
Supported NATO expansion and increased U.S. influence in the Balkans, particularly in response to threats from Russia.
Will U.S. Policy Towards Kosovo Change Under a New President?
Possible scenarios depending on the new administration:
Continuity in U.S. support for Kosovo:
U.S. policy towards Kosovo will remain stable.
NATO will continue its active role in the region.
U.S. presence at Bondsteel and support for Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic integration will be reinforced.
A potential shift under a new Trump administration or a similar leadership:
A possible decrease in U.S. engagement in the Balkans.
Increased pressure on Kosovo to make compromises with Serbia.
Potential reduction in military presence, though a full withdrawal is unlikely.
Regardless of presidential changes, the U.S. has long-term strategic interests in the Balkans, and its support for Kosovo is unlikely to undergo fundamental changes.
NATO’s Role in Kosovo and the Balkans
NATO and KFOR in Kosovo
KFOR’s Mission: NATO has maintained a military presence in Kosovo since 1999, serving as the primary guarantor of security.
U.S. Role in KFOR: The U.S. is one of the main contributors to KFOR and has significant influence on NATO’s Balkan policy.
Could NATO Withdraw from Kosovo?
Currently, there are no plans for KFOR’s withdrawal from Kosovo.
If the situation stabilizes, NATO might reduce its presence, but a complete withdrawal is unlikely.
NATO and Albania
Albania has been a NATO member since 2009 and plays an increasingly important role in regional defense.
Kuçovë Air Base: NATO has invested in modernizing this base, which will be used for air defense operations in the region.
NATO and Challenges in the Balkans
Russian and Chinese Influence: NATO is working to curb the growing influence of Russia and China in Serbia and the broader region.
NATO Expansion: If Bosnia and Kosovo move closer to NATO, its presence in the region will be further strengthened.
Will the U.S. Withdraw from the Balkans?
Scenario 1: Continued U.S. Presence in Kosovo and the Balkans
U.S. strategic interests in the Balkans remain long-term, and Kosovo is a key ally.
The increasing influence of Russia and China in the region makes it unlikely that the U.S. will reduce its engagement.
The Bondsteel military base is a strategic asset that the U.S. is unlikely to abandon.
Scenario 2: Possible Reduction in U.S. Engagement but No Full Withdrawal
If future administrations prioritize domestic policies or other global conflicts, military presence in the Balkans may be reduced.
However, any major U.S. withdrawal would be gradual and coordinated with NATO and the EU.
Scenario 3: A Shift in U.S. Strategy Towards a More Decentralized Approach
Instead of maintaining a large direct military presence, the U.S. might focus on strengthening Kosovo’s military capabilities.
Greater reliance on NATO and the EU to manage security in the Balkans.
Conclusion
Changes in U.S. presidents may influence the tone of policy towards Kosovo, but strategic support is unlikely to change fundamentally.
Democratic administrations tend to strongly support Kosovo and the U.S. presence in the Balkans.
Republican administrations may take a more pragmatic approach and seek compromise solutions with Serbia.
NATO will continue to play a key role in Kosovo and Albania, particularly in response to Russian threats.
The U.S. and NATO are unlikely to withdraw from the region in the near future due to strategic and security interests. Policy Toward Kosovo Will Remain Stable
NATO will continue to be active in the region.
The U.S. presence in Bondsteel and support for Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic integration will be strengthened.
President Trump… or his administration, for example:
There may be a decrease in U.S. engagement in the Balkans.
There will be increased pressure on Kosovo to make compromises with Serbia.
The military presence may be reduced, but a complete withdrawal is not expected.
In any case, regardless of presidential changes, U.S. strategic interests in the Balkans are long-term, and support for Kosovo will not fundamentally change.
NATO’s Role in Kosovo and the Balkans
NATO and KFOR in Kosovo
KFOR’s Mission: NATO has maintained a military presence in Kosovo since 1999, and KFOR remains the primary guarantor of security.
The U.S. Role in KFOR: The U.S. is one of the main contributors to KFOR and has significant influence on NATO policy in the Balkans.
Could NATO Leave Kosovo?
So far, there are no plans for KFOR to withdraw from Kosovo.
If the situation stabilizes, NATO may reduce its presence, but it will not fully withdraw.
NATO and Albania
Albania has been a NATO member since 2009 and plays an increasingly important role in regional defense.
Kuçovë Air Base: NATO has invested in modernizing this base, which will be used for air defense operations in the region.
NATO Facing Challenges in the Balkans
Russian and Chinese Influence: NATO is working to prevent the growing influence of Russia and China in Serbia and the region.
NATO Expansion: If Bosnia and Kosovo move closer to NATO, its presence in the region will further strengthen.
The Impact of U.S. Presidential Changes on Kosovo Policy:
Democratic administrations tend to strongly support Kosovo and the U.S. presence in the Balkans.
Republican administrations may take a more pragmatic approach and seek compromise solutions with Serbia.
NATO will continue to play a key role in Kosovo and Albania, especially in response to threats from Russia.
The U.S. and NATO are unlikely to withdraw from the region in the near future due to strategic and security interests.
Will the U.S. Withdraw from the Balkans?
Scenario 1: U.S. Presence in Kosovo and the Balkans Will Continue
U.S. strategic interests in the Balkans are long-term, and Kosovo remains an important ally.
Russia and China are increasing their influence in the region, and the U.S. does not want to allow the weakening of Western presence.
The Bondsteel military base is a strategic asset that the U.S. is unlikely to abandon in the near future.
Scenario 2: The U.S. May Reduce Engagement but Not Fully Withdraw
If future U.S. administrations prioritize domestic policies or other global conflicts, there could be a reduction in the U.S. military presence in the Balkans.
However, any major U.S. withdrawal would happen gradually and in coordination with NATO and the EU.
Scenario 3: The U.S. May Change Its Strategy and Seek a More Decentralized Approach
Instead of maintaining a large direct military presence, the U.S. could support the strengthening of Kosovo’s military and increase NATO and EU involvement in the region. NATO and Security in Kosovo
The Future Role of KFOR
NATO’s mission in Kosovo remains crucial for regional stability. KFOR does not have a set withdrawal deadline, and its departure will depend on the overall stability of the Balkans. If tensions between Kosovo and Serbia persist, NATO may increase its presence instead of reducing it.
Could Kosovo Join NATO?
Kosovo is not currently a NATO member but has a partnership with the alliance. The main obstacle to membership is the non-recognition of Kosovo by five NATO countries (Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary). If these countries change their stance, Kosovo could begin the NATO accession process in the coming years.
NATO and the Future of Security in Kosovo
The Role of KFOR and NATO in Kosovo
Currently, NATO has around 3,700 troops in Kosovo through the KFOR mission, aimed at maintaining stability and preventing conflicts between Kosovo and Serbia.
Possible future scenarios include:
NATO maintaining or increasing its presence if tensions with Serbia rise or if Russian influence grows.
Gradual reduction of KFOR if Kosovo builds a strong military and relations with Serbia improve.
NATO shifting its role to partnerships and support for Kosovo’s army, rather than direct military presence.
Will Kosovo Join NATO?
Despite Kosovo’s aspiration to join NATO, several factors complicate the process:
Five NATO members do not recognize Kosovo (Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary), blocking its accession.
Relations with Serbia and Russia: Serbia strongly opposes Kosovo’s NATO membership and has Russian backing.
Military development: Kosovo needs to develop a strong army that meets NATO standards.
If the EU and NATO reach an agreement with Serbia for normalizing relations with Kosovo, this obstacle could be eased, allowing Kosovo to start the integration process.
The Role of the EU and International Factors
The Role of the European Union in Kosovo
The EU is the main mediator in Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, but its effectiveness is limited due to:
Internal EU divisions, making it difficult to have a unified stance on Kosovo.
Non-recognition by five EU states, preventing a common EU position on Kosovo.
Lack of an independent EU military force, meaning Kosovo’s security remains dependent on NATO.
Russia and China in the Balkans
A crucial factor influencing US policy in the Balkans is the involvement of rival powers like Russia and China:
Russia strongly supports Serbia and opposes Kosovo’s independence, using this issue to block NATO and EU expansion in the Balkans.
China is heavily investing in Serbia’s infrastructure, including railways, energy, and technology, creating significant economic influence in the region.
If the US reduces its presence, Russia and China could exploit the vacuum, shifting the geopolitical balance in the Balkans. To prevent this scenario, the US and NATO are likely to maintain their commitment to Kosovo and regional security.
Conclusion: Will the US Stay in the Balkans?
After analyzing political, strategic, and economic factors, some clear conclusions emerge:
The US is unlikely to withdraw from the Balkans in the near future, as its strategic interests keep it engaged in the region.
NATO will continue playing a key role in Kosovo’s security, though its engagement might evolve.
Kosovo will remain an important partner for the US, but it must strengthen its institutions and resolve disputes with Serbia for long-term stability.
If the US reduces its presence, the EU and NATO will have to take on more responsibility for regional stability. The influence of Russia and China will be a decisive factor in the future of U.S. policy in the Balkans. If these powers strengthen their presence, the U.S. and NATO may increase their commitment to the region.
Therefore, despite political changes in U.S. administrations, the Balkans will remain a strategic priority for the U.S. and NATO in the coming years.
