Former US President Donald Trump has caused a stir with his recent comments, suggesting that the United States might not “defend” some NATO allies under the collective defense agreement of the alliance. His words have caused alarm among European countries that depend on US military protection in the event of an attack.
In a speech at a rally, Trump denounced some of the NATO nations for failing to meet their defense spending obligations, and only those who “pay their fair share” would deserve US military protection. The statements are in conflict with Article 5 of the NATO charter, which defines that an attack on one member is deemed an attack on all, the cornerstone of the alliance.
The declaration has elicited quick reactions from European leaders, with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg reiterating the alliance’s pledge to collective defense. Experts caution that any change in US policy would undermine NATO’s deterrence against possible threats, especially in the face of continued global tensions.
As US elections draw near, Trump’s position on NATO may become a key foreign policy matter, shaping transatlantic relations and global security policies in the years to come.
