By JESSICA R. JONES
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump raised doubts on Thursday about NATO’s commitment to defend the U.S. in case of an attack, despite the alliance’s past support after the September 11 attacks, which marked the only time the defense guarantee was invoked.
Trump also hinted at the possibility of the U.S. reconsidering its alliance commitments if member nations fail to meet defense spending targets. This comes just a day after his nominee for NATO ambassador reassured senators of the administration’s unwavering dedication to the military alliance.
Trump’s critical remarks about NATO, originally established to counter Soviet aggression during the Cold War, align with his longstanding criticism of the alliance for not adequately contributing to defense costs. These comments come at a time of heightened concern over Trump’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who views NATO as a threat, and as the U.S. president presses Ukraine to agree to a peace deal with the country that invaded it three years ago.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth caused turmoil within the alliance last month by stating that the U.S. would not participate in any peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine, a non-NATO member, and would not defend any nation that took part in such operations if attacked by Russia.
During the Oval Office meeting on Thursday, Trump expressed skepticism that other countries would come to the U.S.’s defense, despite their previous support when the Article 5 defense guarantee was invoked following the 9/11 attacks.
French President Emmanuel Macron responded by affirming France’s loyalty and friendship towards the U.S., citing historical ties between the two nations.
When questioned about U.S. policy regarding the defense of NATO countries that fail to meet military spending targets, Trump emphasized the need for fairness and equitable burden-sharing among alliance members.
Trump’s stance on NATO’s mutual defense guarantees and military spending requirements has been a recurring theme since his 2016 campaign, with a focus on ensuring countries meet the 2% GDP commitment for defense spending.
As the most powerful member of the alliance, the U.S. plays a significant role in NATO’s operations and spends more on defense than any other member nation.
Trump also hinted at leveraging the U.S. commitment to NATO in ongoing trade negotiations to address what he perceives as unfair trade practices, particularly with the European Union.
Ultimately, Trump’s approach to NATO reflects his administration’s emphasis on equitable burden-sharing and fair trade practices among alliance members.
Contributions by Associated Press writer Sylvie Corbet in Brussels.
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