Ankara: In a televised address preceding the official NATO meetings in the Turkish capital, Ankara, US President Donald Trump issued a scathing critique of NATO allies, particularly highlighting the financial burden borne by the United States in protecting the alliance from Russian threats. “We spent over a trillion dollars to protect NATO from Russia, but they didn’t help us,” Trump stated, expressing his dissatisfaction with the European countries’ reluctance to increase defense spending within the alliance.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Trump also addressed the recent tensions with Iran, declaring the memorandum of understanding with the country as “over.” He criticized Iranian officials, labeling them as “vile creatures” and “sick people,” and instructed US negotiators to cease discussions with Tehran, viewing further negotiations as futile. Trump alleged that Iran had personal vendettas against him, claiming, “Iran wanted to ‘take him out’ and his name was on all of Iran’s lists.”
The US President further articulated his dissatisfaction with NATO’s response to issues concerning Greenland and Iran. He accused the alliance of not being enthusiastic about supporting the United States, although he acknowledged that the US did not need external help. Trump particularly singled out Spain, describing it as a “very bad partner” within NATO and advocated for a cessation of trade relations. He criticized Britain, Germany, and France for their lack of support in the US’s stance against Iran, despite the significant financial aid provided by the United States to NATO.
Trump, however, commended NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, describing him as the alliance’s greatest asset. He also commented on the mediating countries in the Washington-Tehran talks, expressing favorable views towards Turkish President Erdogan while noting tensions between Erdogan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In conclusion, Trump praised Turkey’s military strength and disclosed its interest in acquiring F-35 fighter jets.