President Donald Trump once again launched harsh criticism against NATO and questioned the attitude of member countries, assuring that “no one understands anything unless they are pressured”, in a new demonstration of his firm position regarding the role of the United States within the Western military alliance.
The statements were released this Thursday on social networks and come amid growing tension between Washington and several European governments over the sharing of responsibilities in matters of international defense.
Trump calls for Europe to assume greater responsibilities
The Republican president argued that many allied countries were used for decades to depending on U.S. military protection without making proportional
contributions.“None of the countries that make up NATO understand anything unless they are pressured,” Trump said.
In addition, he remarked that the alliance:
.”“It wasn't there when we needed it and it won't be there if we need it again
The statements deepen his historic stance of demanding a reorganization of the link between Washington and its European allies.
The conflict with Iran has once again strained the relationship with the Atlantic alliance
.Trump's criticism comes after several NATO member countries avoided getting involved in the position promoted by Washington during the recent
war against Iran.As the president said a few days ago, European allies did not provide sufficient support during the conflict in the Middle East nor did they collaborate on strategic tasks related to international maritime security.
.“Why would we be there for them if they are not there for us?” , he questioned
Trump is even analyzing a US exit from NATO
.In a recent interview with The Telegraph, Trump said that he is seriously analyzing the possibility of withdrawing the United States from the military alliance if there are no profound changes
