At the Munich Security Conference on February 13, 2026, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen, a Democrat from Novel Hampshire, and Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, engaged in a discussion with NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly regarding the future of the transatlantic alliance. The senators, co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate NATO Observer Group, addressed concerns about continued U.S. Support for the organization amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
The discussion took place as the war in Ukraine continues, placing significant strain on international security structures. Shaheen and Tillis underscored the importance of a unified response from NATO allies, emphasizing the need for sustained American involvement. According to a statement released by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the senators highlighted the critical role of strengthening NATO and maintaining solidarity among its members.
The senators’ appearance at the Munich Security Conference followed a fireside chat with Politico on February 15, 2025, where they also discussed the importance of transatlantic security cooperation. That earlier discussion, as reported by Politico, focused on the need to address evolving threats and maintain a strong deterrent against potential adversaries.
The meeting with NPR provided a platform for the senators to articulate their perspectives on the challenges facing the transatlantic alliance. The senators’ participation in the Munich Security Conference signals continued Congressional interest in the security of Europe and the role of the United States within NATO.
The Senate NATO Observer Group, co-chaired by Shaheen and Tillis, plays a key role in monitoring and assessing developments related to the alliance. Their presence at the Munich conference underscores the bipartisan commitment within the U.S. Senate to maintaining a strong transatlantic partnership.
No further public statements were made by the senators following the NPR interview, and details regarding specific policy proposals discussed during the session have not been released.
