Trump Again Threatens to Withhold NATO Protection
President Donald Trump reiterated his stance that the U.S. will not defend NATO members that fail to meet defense spending commitments, echoing his controversial campaign remarks.
"I think it's obvious, isn’t it? If they don’t pay, I won’t protect them," Trump told reporters at the White House on March 6. "I took a lot of criticism for saying that. People said I was violating NATO principles."
Trump’s comments came in response to a question about whether he would follow through on his policy of not defending NATO allies that fail to meet defense spending targets.
NATO’s core principle, Article 5, states that an attack on one member is considered an attack on the entire alliance, requiring a collective response. However, Trump questioned whether European allies would uphold that commitment, calling it "the biggest issue with NATO."
"I know these people. They are our friends. But if America is in trouble and we call them—let’s say France—do you think they’re going to come and protect us? They’re supposed to. I’m not so sure," Trump said.
The president also criticized some NATO members for not spending enough on defense and relying too heavily on U.S. military support. "They should contribute more," he insisted.
In response, French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to NATO, calling his country a "loyal and steadfast ally."
"We have always been there for our partners. France has demonstrated friendship and respect for the U.S. We have the right to expect the same in return," Macron said.
On March 6, NBC News reported that the U.S. government is considering adjusting military aid policies to favor NATO members that contribute more to defense spending. The plan suggests that nations failing to meet their financial commitments could face reduced U.S. military support in the event of an attack.
This is not the first time Trump has issued such a warning. At a campaign rally in South Carolina in February 2024, he recalled a past NATO meeting during his first term, where he warned that the U.S. would not protect allies that failed to pay their share.
During his first term, Trump repeatedly criticized NATO members for not meeting the alliance’s goal of spending at least 2% of GDP on defense. In January, he proposed increasing the target to 5% of GDP.
(Sources: ABC News, AFP)
Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.
Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?
We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from
Los Angeles Airport - LAX
Long Beach Airport - LGB
John Wayne Airport - SNA
San Pedro cruise port
Long Beach cruise port
Disneyland
and other destinations.
Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!
