In a statement that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, former US President Donald Trump has revealed a controversial approach to handling NATO allies he deems insufficient.
Speaking at a rally on Saturday, Mr. Trump claimed he would tell Russia to do "whatever the hell they want" to any NATO country not meeting its defence spending obligations. This extraordinary admission, referring to a conversation he alleged took place with a head of state from a "big country," has been met with widespread condemnation and alarm.
A Chilling Anecdote from the Campaign Trail
The remarks were delivered to supporters in South Carolina, where Mr. Trump is campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination. He recounted a story where an unnamed leader of a NATO nation asked if the US would still protect them from a potential Russian invasion if they had not paid their dues.
"'You didn't pay? You're delinquent?'" Mr. Trump claimed he responded. "'No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay. You gotta pay your bills.'"
Swift International Condemnation
The comments were swiftly criticised by world leaders and officials. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg issued a statement warning that such rhetoric "puts American and European soldiers at increased risk."
White House spokesman Andrew Bates condemned the sentiment as "appalling and unhinged," arguing it promotes chaos and endangers US national security, global stability, and the domestic economy.
Sweden Strengthens Its NATO Bid Amidst the Furore
The timing of Mr. Trump's comments is particularly sensitive, coinciding with Sweden's imminent accession to the NATO alliance. Following Hungary's recent pledge to ratify its bid, Sweden is on the cusp of becoming the 32nd member state—a move largely catalysed by Russian aggression in Ukraine.
This incident has ignited a fierce debate about the future of international alliances and the reliability of US commitments under a potential second Trump administration, raising profound questions for global security architecture.
