Trump’s frustration with NATO allies for their lack of support in America’s military endeavors has prompted him to threaten a potential U.S. withdrawal from the trans-Atlantic alliance.
The White House has intensified its rhetoric towards NATO, hinting that the option of American withdrawal could be discussed when Trump meets with Rutte in the Oval Office.
However, any decision to leave NATO would require Congressional approval, which seems improbable at this time.
Trump has previously praised his relationship with Rutte, calling the former Dutch prime minister a “wonderful person.”
This relationship has faced challenges over the past six weeks, as the U.S. president criticized NATO for being a “paper tiger” due to its reluctance to join in strikes against Iran.
Trump’s discontent has been fueled by the alliance’s failure to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passageway for global oil shipments.
He insisted it was not the American military’s job but the responsibility of countries that depend on the flow of oil through it.
“Go to the strait and just take it,” Trump said last week.
Trump was also angered as NATO allies Spain and France forbade or restricted use of their airspace or joint military facilities for the US in the war.
They and other nations, however, agreed to help with an international coalition to open the Strait of Hormuz when the conflict ends.
– With Associated Press
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