Trump Questions Value of NATO, Calls Current US Support ‘Ridiculous’ Ahead of Alliance Summit

WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized the United States’ current level of support for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, describing it as “ridiculous” ahead of next week’s NATO summit in Ankara and renewing long-standing complaints that European allies are not contributing enough to the alliance.

In remarks published on Friday, Trump argued that Washington’s relationship with NATO was “not reciprocal,” claiming that many allies failed to support the United States during its recent conflict with Iran. He maintained that the U.S. shoulders a disproportionate share of the alliance’s defense burden while receiving insufficient backing from partner nations during times of crisis.

Trump’s comments come just days before NATO leaders gather in Ankara for what is expected to be a pivotal summit focused on collective security, defense spending, and the alliance’s response to Russia’s continued military threat. Despite his criticism, the U.S. president is expected to attend the meeting, where burden-sharing among member states is likely to dominate discussions.

The president has repeatedly urged NATO members to significantly increase defense spending, arguing that European countries should take greater responsibility for their own security. His administration has also been reviewing the future of U.S. military deployments in Europe, raising concerns among allies about Washington’s long-term commitment to the alliance.

European leaders have sought to reassure member states of NATO’s unity ahead of the summit, even as Trump’s latest remarks underscore continuing tensions over defense commitments and the future direction of the transatlantic alliance.