Marco Rubio will meet with NATO foreign ministers to discuss the withdrawal of troops from Europe and the divergences with Iran.

Marco Rubio, the American Secretary of State, will meet with NATO allies on Friday for the first time since President Donald Trump questioned the alliance due to disagreements related to the war with Iran and announced the withdrawal of 5,000 soldiers from Europe. Rubio stated that Trump is disappointed with NATO members who did not allow the use of American bases, especially mentioning Spain.

Although NATO officials emphasized that the U.S. did not seek the alliance's help in the conflict with Iran, Europeans are prepared to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. European concerns have increased following the decision to withdraw soldiers from Europe, and European ministers will try to reassure the U.S. at the meeting in Sweden. The NATO Supreme Commander assured that the reductions will take place over several years, giving allies time to develop their capabilities. This meeting will test the U.S. response to the troop withdrawal and Trump's criticisms. Trump also announced the deployment of 5,000 soldiers in Poland, highlighting the good relationship with the new Polish president.