U.S. President Donald Trump has said he is “absolutely” considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, significantly escalating tensions with key Western allies.
The remarks come amid growing disagreements over the Iran war, with Trump criticizing European nations for refusing to support U.S. efforts, including operations related to securing the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking ahead of a national address, Trump expressed frustration with the alliance, describing NATO as ineffective and questioning the commitment of member states. His comments follow similar concerns raised by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who declined to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to NATO’s core principle of collective defence.
The potential withdrawal has raised alarm among European leaders. Officials in countries including Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom have urged caution, emphasizing the importance of NATO as a cornerstone of global security and transatlantic cooperation.
Experts warn that any uncertainty around U.S. commitment to NATO’s Article 5 — which states that an attack on one member is an attack on all — could embolden adversaries and destabilize the alliance.
The tensions highlight deepening divisions between the United States and its allies, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Iran and broader disagreements over defence responsibilities and foreign policy priorities.
A formal decision has not yet been announced, but Trump is expected to address the issue further in his upcoming speech.
