Brussels: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday urged NATO members to return to a "hardline military alliance" as part of a strategic shift toward "NATO 3.0."

According to Anadolu Agency, Hegseth described 'NATO 3.0' as a post-Cold War framework that calls for a "real hard-line military alliance" with substantial military capabilities to deter threats on the continent. Speaking at the NATO headquarters, he stressed the importance of European nations taking the lead in the conventional defense of Europe.

In his televised remarks, Hegseth pointed out that while many NATO allies have kept their commitments from the recent Hague Summit, there are still some members that "need to do more." He pledged to be candid in both private and public forums to ensure that all allies are "stepping up" and fulfilling their promises.

The defense chief highlighted a proposed $1.5 trillion US defense budget for the fiscal year 2027 as a clear "message to the world" about the necessity of investing in military capabilities. He asserted that these funds would help rebuild the "arsenal of freedom," safeguarding American interests while supporting allied nations.

Hegseth's visit to Brussels for NATO defense ministers' meetings precedes the upcoming July 7-8 summit in Ankara. He expressed optimism about the summit, stating, "We ... look forward to Ankara, and the great things that (US) President (Donald) Trump, the other leaders, leaders will be able to do for NATO." His comments come amid President Trump's ongoing criticisms of NATO, particularly concerning burden-sharing among member nations.