Defending Europe: American Perspectives on the Madrid Summit and NATO’s New Strategic Concept
Channel: IIEA
Date: 08/07/2022

On 28 June 2022, NATO will host the Madrid Summit with heads of state and government from the 30 NATO Allies; leaders from key partner nations, and representatives from the European Union have also been invited. In the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine which has shattered peace in Europe, caused far-reaching energy and food crises, and shaken the rules-based international order, the Madrid Summit will see the presentation of NATO’s new Strategic Concept. This will define the security challenges facing the Alliance and outline the political and military responsibilities NATO will carry out to address them in the years to come enabling the Alliance to continue to adapt to a changing world and keep its one billion people safe. Allied leaders will also boost cooperation with partners, enhance resilience and sharpen NATO's technological edge. In his intervention, Deputy Defence Advisor David Helvey discusses the outcomes of the Madrid Summit and explores their implications for the United States’ participation in Europe’s security. 

About the Speaker: 

David F. Helvey is the US Secretary of Defense Deputy Representative in Europe and the Deputy Defense Advisor for the US Mission to NATO. He is responsible for planning, recommending, coordinating, and monitoring US Department of Defense policies, programs, and initiatives in Europe, as well as the formulation, coordination, and presentation of Department of Defense policies to the US Ambassador to NATO. Previously, David F. Helvey served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs where he was responsible for developing and overseeing the execution of the United States’ defense and security policy in the Indo-Pacific region. He has been awarded a number of honours, including the Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive, the Department of Defense Distinguished Civilian Service Medal and the Secretary of Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Medal.   

Recorded on the 8th of July 2022