The sort of narrative or the perception that the U.S. is somehow disengaging from Europe, I've experienced the precise opposite.

I think contained within that challenge to European countries, including ours, to invest more in our defense, that arises out of U.S. concern for European defense. They want stronger allies.

I find them engaged. I think the challenge they've set down for the entire alliance about deterrence, preparedness, resilience, is absolutely right.

As Defense Secretary, I'm leaning into that challenge rather than squatting in a defensive crouch, which I think we've seen Europe do a bit too much over recent months and years on this issue.