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Trump escalates rhetoric against NATO amid Iran conflict
US President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of NATO, accusing the alliance of failing to support America during the ongoing war with Iran. The remarks came hours after a private meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Wednesday.
Public rebuke on Truth Social
In a post on Truth Social following the meeting, Trump declared, "NATO WASN'T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM, AND THEY WON'T BE THERE IF WE NEED THEM AGAIN." The statement underscored his long-standing frustration with the alliance, which he has repeatedly accused of inadequate burden-sharing.
Rutte describes talks as "frank" despite divisions
Rutte, who spent over two hours at the White House, later told CNN the discussion was "very frank" and "very open," though he acknowledged "clear disagreements." The NATO chief sought to counter Trump's claims, emphasizing that most European members had contributed through basing, logistics, and overflight permissions.
"The large majority of European nations has been helpful... It's therefore a nuanced picture."
Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General
Trump threatens NATO withdrawal over Hormuz dispute
Ahead of the meeting, Trump had floated the idea of leaving NATO entirely, citing resistance from member states to his demands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz-a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The White House did not disclose details of the conversation, but Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later echoed Trump's stance, stating NATO had "failed" the US during "Operation Epic Fury."
Leavitt added that Trump would deliver a "very frank and candid" message to Rutte about allies "turning their backs on the American people."
Congressional safeguards complicate exit
Despite Trump's threats, a 2023 congressional vote bars any US president from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without a two-thirds Senate majority or an act of Congress. Analysts suggest the measure could limit his ability to act on his rhetoric.
Rutte praises Trump's leadership on Iran
In an apparent effort to ease tensions, Rutte credited Trump's "leadership" for "degrading Iran's nuclear threats," calling the world "absolutely" safer than before the conflict. He also noted that most NATO members view the war as a necessary step to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Greenland dispute resurfaces
Trump revisited another grievance in his Truth Social post, referencing his administration's failed 2019 bid to purchase Greenland. "REMEMBER GREENLAND, THAT BIG, POORLY RUN, PIECE OF ICE!!!" he wrote, framing the territory as a symbol of broader transatlantic friction.
Alliance faces historic challenge
The Iran conflict has amplified Trump's skepticism of NATO, creating what Rutte described as "perhaps the greatest challenge the alliance has faced in its history." Observers warn the rift could weaken collective defense commitments if left unaddressed.
