A recent report suggested the U.S. might use the Falkland Islands issue to pressure Britain into meeting its NATO defense commitments. This drew a quick response from Morgan Murphy, a former Pentagon official. He emphasized that the U.S. stance on the islands’ neutrality remains unchanged.

Murphy mentioned the Trump administration could leverage diplomatic pressure regarding London’s military budget. He criticized any lack of payment for security services as ‘free-riding,’ stressing accountability among allies.

You don’t take the security and skip the bill. Friends tell friends the check is due. Squeeze is accountability.

The dispute escalated following reports that U.K. Chancellor John Healey might announce a reduction in defense spending targets. The Financial Times revealed that the government might drop its goal of spending 3% of GDP on defense by 2030.

The situation is developing amid a six-month Pentagon review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe. Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby leads this review. The U.S. continues to encourage European allies and Canada to assume more responsibility for NATO’s conventional defense.

Murphy stated that America’s position on the Falklands remains one of neutrality. He noted, We can’t ‘withdraw support’ for sovereignty of the Falklands that was never there. He highlighted the importance of distinguishing between rumors and official White House statements.

Reports of potential changes in U.S. policy on the islands surfaced. An internal Pentagon email hinted at a review, but Murphy pointed out the lack of official confirmation. He reaffirmed the neutrality and recognition of British administration.

Murphy highlighted the 2013 referendum where Falkland Islanders voted overwhelmingly to remain a British territory. He maintained that the U.S. could pursue diplomatic strategies without altering its stance on the Falklands.

The U.K.’s defense spending is projected to reach 2.7% of GDP by 2030. Meanwhile, the government aims for a new timeline to achieve the NATO defense-spending target of 3% by 2035.

NATO allies agreed to spend 5% of GDP annually on defense by 2035. This includes a 3.5% allocation for core defense requirements, as outlined in the 2025 Hague Summit Declaration.

Murphy underlined the importance of adhering to signed pledges and treaties. He advocated for diplomatic pressure on Britain to reach agreed defense spending targets.

U.K. officials have highlighted their role in NATO and their nuclear deterrent contributions to the alliance. A spokesperson stated the U.K. is NATO’s third-largest cash spender on defense.