Trump’s comments come amid heightened concern in Europe that the United States could scale back its security commitments.
Trump also questioned whether NATO countries such as France would come to Washington’s aid “if the United States was in trouble,” even though the alliance famously invoked its mutual defense clause for the first and only time after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on America.
Despite describing NATO as “potentially good,” Trump criticized member states for “screwing us on trade” and urged them to increase their defense budgets.
European leaders, meanwhile, have vowed to boost defense spending and continue supporting Ukraine.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, speaking earlier on Thursday, sought to reassure allies, saying that the transatlantic partnership remains vital and that Europe must do more in terms of defense spending—reflecting Trump's longstanding complaint that allies are not contributing enough.
Trump’s skepticism toward the 75-year-old alliance, combined with his increasingly warmer relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has further unsettled Western governments.
Still, as recently as last week, Trump said he remains committed to NATO’s principle of mutual defense.
(jh/gs)
Source: NBC, Guardian, IAR, PAP