BRUSSELS -- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Trump administration’s new envoy to NATO arrived Thursday in Brussels, where the alliance’s top diplomats are hoping they’ll shed light on U.S. security plans in Europe.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured nervous NATO allies on Thursday of Washington's commitment but urged them to massively ramp up defense spending. The call comes as Donald Trump sows doubt

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was to attend his first meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Thursday and Friday. The discussions among allies focus on the 'rebalancing' of funding and operational responsibilities.

The chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized 'mid-level' Pentagon officials for what he says is a misguided plan to reduce U.S. troops in Europe.

Some Europeans have acknowledged U.S. grievances over trade but wonder whether the Trump administration is serious about finding a middle ground.

Mark Rutte says US commitment to NATO remains strong, but Europe must do more as threats from Russia, China, Iran persist - Anadolu Ajansı

Finland's President Alexander Stubb said on Thursday that all of Europe should engage with the United States on the issue of trade tariffs.

The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized Pentagon “mid-level” leadership for what he says is a misguided plan to reduce the number of U.S. troops based in Europe.

“To keep the continent safe, Europe must push on defence spending, address capability shortfalls, and work closer with partners. Strengthening European defence also strengthens Nato”, said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat. She will join the Nato crowd for dinner after chairing the Warsaw talks.