U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and U.S. Representative Mike Rogers, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, released a joint statement on April 8 ahead of President Donald Trump’s meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington.
The statement comes as allied defense spending and international security cooperation remain key topics for U.S. policymakers. The leaders said they look forward to hearing about how allies are implementing their commitment to spend 5% of GDP on defense and what actions will be taken in response to threats from Iran.
“We welcome NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s visit to Washington. We look forward to hearing how allies are implementing their historic commitment, driven by President Trump, to spend 5% of GDP on defense and what more they will do to respond to Iran’s threats. We are also interested in hearing about any positive developments in the UK-led effort to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Free passage and commerce are vital to our shared security and prosperity,” Wicker and Rogers said.
They added that while some allies have not fully contributed—specifically mentioning Spain—the majority have provided critical support for Operation Epic Fury. “A strong NATO remains firmly in the U.S. interest. As Iran, China, Russia, and North Korea increasingly work together to undermine our security, we must continue working with our allies to guarantee their failure,” they said.
Wicker serves on important committees related to national defense and military readiness while advocating for economic growth and infrastructure improvements according to his official website. He began his public service career as a page in the U.S. House of Representatives before serving both at state level in Mississippi and later representing Mississippi’s First Congressional District according to his official website. He earned degrees from the University of Mississippi where he also served as student body president according to his official website.
Wicker’s office provides assistance with federal casework involving veterans affairs, Social Security, immigration matters according to his official website, while he is also noted for enjoying time with family including three children alongside his wife Gayle according to his official website.
