Fri Mar 07 09:44:15 UTC 2025: ## Trump Casts Doubt on US Defense of NATO Allies Unless They Increase Spending

**Washington D.C.** – Former President Donald Trump reiterated his longstanding criticism of NATO allies, stating he would not defend them if they fail to contribute adequately to their own defense. In remarks made Thursday at the Oval Office, Trump declared, “If they don’t pay, I’m not going to defend them.” He asserted that while his past efforts prompted increased spending from NATO members, it remains insufficient.

Trump’s comments, delivered just days after publicly affirming US commitment to NATO, sparked immediate concern among European and Asian leaders already apprehensive about a potential reduction in US security guarantees following Trump’s previous interactions with Ukraine and Russia. European leaders, meeting in Brussels earlier Thursday, reaffirmed their commitment to increased defense spending and support for Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte attempted to alleviate concerns, stating that the transatlantic relationship remains strong and that the US commitment to NATO is firm, while reiterating the expectation of increased European defense spending. However, Trump himself expressed skepticism about the reciprocal nature of the alliance, questioning whether allies like France would defend the US in a crisis. He further criticized NATO’s trade practices, describing them as “screwing us.”

Trump’s skepticism extended to the US-Japan security treaty, claiming Japan receives significant economic benefits without a reciprocal commitment to US defense. This assertion was countered by Japan expert Nicholas Szechenyi of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who noted that while Japan’s constitution previously limited military activities, recent reforms allow for collective self-defense under certain conditions, including threats to Japan’s survival.

French President Emmanuel Macron responded to Trump’s remarks by highlighting France’s participation in the Afghanistan conflict alongside the US after 9/11, emphasizing France’s role as a loyal and faithful ally. The Japanese embassy has yet to formally respond. Trump’s latest statements echo similar sentiments expressed during his 2019 visit to Japan. The long-term implications of Trump’s continued questioning of fundamental alliances remain to be seen.

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