# NATO 3.0: Expert Available on Alliance Reform 

February 12, 2026 • News Releases 

Following Under Secretary Elbridge Colby’s remarks at NATO, Cato senior fellow [Katherine Thompson](https://www.cato.org/people/katherine-thompson) backs his call for the alliance to return to its founding principles with concrete commitments: 5% defense spending, Europe assuming primary responsibility for conventional defense, and strategic discipline over vague promises.

Thompson calls for ending post-Cold War complacency and embracing a NATO 3.0 grounded in clear expectations and accountability for European allies.

Katherine Thompson is available for interviews on NATO reform and transatlantic security. Please contact Madison: [mmiller@​cato.​org](mailto:mmiller@cato.org).

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