The proposed framework, first reported by Politico and corroborated by three European diplomats and a U.S. defense official, outlines categories distinguishing allies deemed "committed” from those considered "non-compliant.” The plan was reportedly developed ahead of NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s recent visit to Washington.

A European diplomat familiar with the discussions said the initiative reflects prior remarks by U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth. "There is a clear intent to reward allies that meet expectations and reconsider engagement with those that do not,” the diplomat told.

At NATO headquarters in Brussels, officials declined to comment publicly. However, a second European official described uncertainty over implementation. "There is no clarity on enforcement mechanisms. Moving troops, for instance, carries operational and financial burdens for the United States itself,” the official said.

On-the-ground reactions in European capitals reflected unease. In Berlin, defense analysts noted increased scrutiny of joint exercises, with one observing reduced coordination meetings in recent weeks. In Warsaw, by contrast, government officials signaled openness to expanded U.S. military presence, citing strengthened bilateral ties.

White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary, Anna Kelly, acknowledged dissatisfaction with certain allies. "President Donald Trump has been explicit about the imbalance in contributions and the expectation that partners will meet shared defense obligations,” she said during a press briefing.

The classification is expected to weigh factors including defense spending levels and operational support during the Iran conflict, particularly access to military bases and strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. Countries including Romania and Poland are viewed by analysts as likely beneficiaries, given their alignment with U.S. policy positions.

The development follows longstanding disputes within NATO over burden-sharing. Trump has repeatedly called for members to increase defense spending to 5 percent of GDP, exceeding the alliance’s current 2 percent guideline. Spain, France, and the United Kingdom reportedly delayed or declined certain U.S. requests during the Iran operations, contributing to current tensions.

Analysts say the move could reshape alliance dynamics. "This introduces a transactional layer into NATO cooperation,” said Elena Markovic, a Brussels-based security expert. "It risks fragmenting collective defense principles if applied unevenly.”

No NATO member has previously faced formal penalties of this nature. Congressional sources in Washington have also raised concerns about potential repercussions for transatlantic relations.

The proposal remains under internal review, with no official timeline for implementation. Observers note that its eventual adoption could mark a significant shift in how the United States engages with long-standing allies.