Attending his second NATO summit in Brussels this week, President Trump should deliver a stark message to the Belgian government: Increase defense spending now or see NATO headquarters relocated to the British capital.
Such an ultimatum would be absolutely justified. While Belgium has the honor of hosting the alliance that has done more than any other in history to secure freedom and security, it spends next to nothing on defense. The latest NATO figures show that when it comes to the most important measure of contribution to the alliance (defense spending as a percentage of gross domestic product and equipment spending as a percentage of defense budget) Belgium is second-worst in both cases.
Moreover, the pathetic spending shows, apart from its air force and light infantry formations, which are limited in size but well-trained, the Belgian military is basically a civil defense force. The best example of Belgium’s under-resourced budget is its tiny naval force of late-Cold War-era vessels. Considering Belgium’s critical strategic position on the swing through from the North Sea to the British Channel, you might think that naval capabilities would be a priority.
But it’s clear to see why Belgium sees things differently. Because Belgium sees Britain, France, and the U.S. providing those naval capabilities and thinks, Why should we help out? Why don’t we just spend more of our money on entrenching a culture of poverty in our crime-ridden inner cities?
Still, what’s most ridiculous about Belgium’s defense posture is its absolute arrogance. Consider how Prime Minister Charles Michel responded to Trump’s recent letter last week asking him to do more to support NATO’s common security: “I am not very impressed by this type of letter.”
You’re not supposed to be impressed, Charles. You’re supposed to take your alliance obligations seriously.
Of course, Belgium has no intention of doing so. And that’s why relocating the headquarters makes sense. NATO’s 2018 headquarters budget is $289 million, but considering the relatively similar living costs of London and Brussels, relocating NATO’s headquarters wouldn’t be that expensive. Relocation would also reward Britain’s growing contribution to NATO even in a situation of fiscal pressure and Brexit-related economic doubts. In addition, the British armed forces already have the structural capabilities to facilitate a rapid transition of NATO headquarters staff and office requirements. The Northwood headquarters in London already hosts NATO’s maritime command and a number of other headquarters for various British military units. It would be perfect for NATO’s needs.
All of this leads me to one piece of advice for Trump. As he sits and listens to the inveterate “we are spending all we can” excuses from European leaders in Brussels this week, Trump should offer a simple riposte: “The time for talking is over.” If the Europeans complain, then Trump should announce a U.S. military basing realignment plan for Europe.
