Washington DC [US], April 13, 2026, BNN Web Staff: US President Donald Trump has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, claiming that member countries failed to stand by the United States during its military challenges involving Iran.
Speaking on the issue, Trump argued that the United States has spent trillions of dollars over the years to support and protect Europe, particularly in efforts related to deterring Russian aggression, but did not receive equivalent backing in return.
He stated that while NATO members are now increasing their contributions, he believes the strategic urgency has changed. He reiterated that the alliance had not been supportive when the US needed assistance, despite significant American financial commitments.
Trump has long been critical of NATO, frequently pushing European members to raise defence spending levels. His stance has included repeated warnings and controversial remarks regarding US foreign policy priorities in Europe and beyond.
According to reports cited by Al Jazeera, Trump has previously described NATO’s limited support as a major flaw within the alliance and has referred to it in highly critical terms. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has also described current trans-Atlantic tensions as a significant stress test for relations between Europe and the United States.
While Trump has expressed dissatisfaction, formally withdrawing the US from NATO would require approval from the US Congress or a supermajority in the Senate. Despite political debate, the alliance continues to retain broad bipartisan support in Washington.
Analysts also note that although treaty commitments exist under Article 5, member states retain flexibility in how they respond to security threats. Reports suggest discussions have taken place regarding potential adjustments to US military deployments in Europe, depending on strategic priorities.
