US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured NATO members of the US’s commitment to the alliance, emphasizing the necessity for them to significantly enhance their defense spending targets.
President Donald Trump has unsettled European allies by questioning his dedication to defending all partners and by engaging with Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine, subsequently inflating tensions with his latest trade tariffs.
“Much of the hysteria and exaggeration I observe in the global media and some domestic media in the United States concerning NATO is unjustified,” Mr. Rubio remarked during his initial visit to meet NATO counterparts in Brussels.
“President Trump has made it clear that he supports NATO. We will continue to be a part of NATO,” he stated.
“Our goal is to leave with a consensus that we are on a realistic path for every single member to commit to and uphold a pledge to reach up to 5% spending, including the United States,” Mr. Rubio indicated.
“No one anticipates that this can be achieved in one or two years. However, the pathway must be tangible,” Mr. Rubio stressed.
He maintained that Mr. Trump is “not opposed to NATO. He opposes a NATO that lacks the necessary capabilities to meet its obligations.”
A number of European nations have declared substantial increases to their military budgets.
“Significant developments are underway. In recent months, we’ve seen hundreds of billions of euros being allocated,” NATO chief Mark Rutte stated.
“This is likely the largest increase in defense spending on the European side of NATO since the Cold War’s conclusion,” he added. “Yet, we still require more.”
As Europe faces threats from Russia, the Trump administration has caused concern by suggesting a possible redeployment of forces to concentrate on challenges posed by China.
Officials have indicated that should the US plan a major troop reduction, a clear timeline must be established for Europe to cover the resulting shortfall.
“There are no plans for an abrupt drawdown of their presence here in Europe,” Mr. Rutte noted.
“However, we realize that for America, being the superpower it is, there are multiple theatres to manage. It’s only reasonable to have that discussion.”
In addition to NATO and Ukraine, Mr. Trump has further unsettled allies with territorial claims against Canada and Denmark, insisting he will take control of Greenland.
Mr. Rubio was scheduled to meet with his Danish counterpart following rising tensions between the two sides after a visit by Vice President JD Vance to the territory.
Foreign ministers largely opted to avoid the topic of a potential trade war after Mr. Trump’s substantial tariffs on allies, particularly the European Union.
Nevertheless, some cautioned that economic conflicts could threaten NATO’s unity and its capacity for future strengthening.
“It is crucial to recognize that we grow more effectively together; if we aim to build resources for a stronger defense, we must focus on economic growth,” stated Norway’s Espen Barth Eide.
“Protectionism will not benefit us.”
