The White House has confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump will discuss the possibility of a U.S. withdrawal from NATO with Secretary-General Mark Rutte during a meeting later today.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the issue has been previously raised by Trump and will be addressed directly in upcoming talks at the White House.
Leavitt also reiterated Trump’s criticism of NATO, quoting the president as saying that the alliance had been “tested and failed.” She added that Trump believes the United States has borne a disproportionate share of the burden for collective defense, expressing frustration that NATO has “turned its back on the American people.”
The announcement comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly following recent developments involving Iran. Leavitt described Trump’s earlier statements toward Tehran as a “strong but not empty threat,” suggesting that they contributed to Iranian leaders agreeing to a temporary arrangement.
On broader regional issues, Leavitt noted that it remains too early to assess whether potential political changes in Iran would lead to increased freedoms for its population. She also reiterated Washington’s position that the Strait of Hormuz should be reopened immediately and without restrictions, including any proposed transit fees.
The meeting between Trump and Rutte is expected to provide further clarity on Washington’s stance toward NATO, as well as the future of transatlantic security cooperation.
