31st Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum – View From the U.S. Senate

Senator Tom Tillis welcomed participants and emphasized that the United States must continue to lead globally. He noted that today’s threats are more complex than traditional state actors, including cyber attacks, hybrid threats, terrorism, and extremist groups, and require collaboration among all democratic nations.

• NATO as a family: Despite ideological differences, allies must protect one another, and the U.S. will stand by partners. He stressed that the U.S. cannot act alone, highlighting gaps in NATO funding and military readiness.
• Ukraine & Russia: Criticized Russia’s aggression as illegitimate and emphasized U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine until success is achieved.
• Global security priorities: Warned of emerging threats in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa, noting that extremist groups are reorganizing under new forms. The U.S. must coordinate with allies to manage limited resources effectively.
• Forward presence & investments: Highlighted the importance of maintaining strategic bases in Europe, including Romania, to counter Russian influence. Emphasized that allies must meet defense commitments to strengthen mutual security.

Key takeaway: Effective leadership requires allies contributing, resources aligned, and coordinated action across regions to defend democracy, deter aggression, and combat emerging global threats.