Rubio says US may need to ‘reexamine’ NATO membership after allies blocked basing, airspace help Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. may need to reexamine its NATO membership if allies continue to deny access to bases and airspace for U.S. military operations. He described the situation as a “one-way street” where the U.S. supports Europe but does not receive reciprocal support when needed. This sentiment arises from several European allies, including Spain and France, restricting or denying U.S. access during Operation Epic Fury.

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the U.S. might need to “reexamine” its NATO role.
• This comes after key allies refused to allow U.S. forces to use bases and airspace during Operation Epic Fury.
• Rubio characterized the alliance as a potential “one-way street” if reciprocal support is not provided.
• The U.S. was seeking access to infrastructure, not direct combat participation from NATO partners.
• Spain closed its airspace, and France reportedly denied overflight for military supplies.
• Rubio deferred the ultimate decision on NATO to President Donald Trump.