国际英语资讯:Spotlight: Tough U.S. demands for burden-sharing dominate NATO talks_时事

国际英语资讯:Spotlight: Tough U.S. demands for burden-sharing dominate NATO talks

The change of stance towards NATO by an American president alarmed many members who agree that NATO is facing the greatest challenge to its security since the end of the Cold War.

Increased and more varied security threats have led some to wish for an even stronger commitment from the United States, but recently appointed U.S. Defence Secretary James Mattis made it clear that without more equal burden-sharing, Americans might withdraw some of their support from NATO.

"America will meet its responsibilities, but if your nations do not want to see America moderate its commitment to this alliance, each of your capitals needs to show support for our common defense," said Mattis on Wednesday in Brussels.

For the retired U.S. general and former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, it was no longer acceptable for U.S. taxpayers to carry a "disproportionate share of the defense of Western values."

"Americans cannot care more for your children's future security than you do," Mattis said. "Disregard for military readiness demonstrates a lack of respect for ourselves, for the alliance, and for the freedoms we inherited, which are now clearly threatened."

The United States' ultimatum arrives at a difficult time, not only because of the diverse security threats NATO potentially face, but also due to the long-term budgetary difficulties under which many members have been struggling since the global financial crisis.