Kellogg proposes to create a new system with trusted allies.
Retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg called for the establishment of a new defense system due to NATO’s inability to effectively respond to global conflicts, which could include Ukraine.
This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing Fox News.
Read also: The EU is preparing backup alliances in case of a NATO crisis, and Ukraine is included, – Politico
Criticism of NATO and the proposal of an alternative
During a television appearance, Kellogg criticized NATO allies for their stance on the conflict in Iran, calling the organization “cowardly.”
In his opinion, the United States should rethink its existing partnerships and consider the possibility of withdrawing from the bloc.
“NATO is becoming cowardly. Perhaps we need a new NATO, a new defense system,” the general stated.
He reminded that Article 13 of the North Atlantic Treaty allows any country to leave the Alliance one year after official notification.
A new configuration of allies
Kellogg suggested forming alliances with countries that are genuinely ready to fight. Among potential partners, he mentioned Japan, Australia, Poland, and a revamped Germany. He also specifically highlighted Ukraine’s role.
“Even Ukraine, which has also proven its effectiveness as a good ally,” Kellogg emphasized.
This opinion was supported by former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He called the situation in the Alliance “terrible” and noted that the U.S. must fundamentally reassess which partners it can truly rely on for critical missions.
Former Deputy National Security Advisor Victoria Coates added that NATO has demonstrated its “insignificance,” as it has failed to cope with the largest war in Europe since World War II.
According to her, the example of successful cooperation between the U.S. and Israel proves that Washington can achieve its goals with motivated allies outside cumbersome structures.
Trump’s threats
It should be noted that discussions about a possible U.S. exit from the Alliance intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump openly called the organization a “paper tiger.” He accused European partners of unwillingness to take on military responsibility, particularly regarding security to lower global oil prices.
The situation escalated on April 1, 2026, when the White House officially confirmed that it was considering a scenario for withdrawing from NATO. The reason was the allies’ refusal to support the American operation against Iran, which Trump perceived as a betrayal of common security interests.
As RBC-Ukraine reported, despite the complexity of the legal procedure for denouncing the treaty, the Trump administration could already resort to limiting financial contributions and withdrawing American troops from key bases in Europe.
