In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through Westminster, former US President Donald Trump allegedly told European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that he would "encourage" Russia to attack NATO allies who failed to meet defence spending targets. This explosive claim, reported by The Independent, has triggered urgent security concerns among UK defence officials.
Westminster Reacts with Alarm
Senior Conservative MP and Foreign Affairs Committee chair Alicia Kearns expressed profound concern, stating the reports reveal a "fundamental vulnerability" at the heart of Western security. The disclosure comes amid growing anxiety about America's commitment to NATO should Trump return to the White House.
Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper described the allegations as "really serious and shocking," highlighting that they underscore the critical importance of international alliances in maintaining global stability.
The Chilling Conversation
According to sources familiar with the discussion, Trump made the remarks during a meeting where he reportedly questioned why the US should protect NATO members who were not "paying their bills." The former president's comments suggest he would have given Vladimir Putin a green light for aggression against Ukraine, fundamentally undermining the alliance's collective defence principle.
UK's Defence Strategy Under Scrutiny
The revelations have prompted urgent calls for the UK government to develop a contingency plan for potential US disengagement from NATO. Security experts warn that Britain must strengthen European defence partnerships and increase military spending to prepare for a possible shift in American foreign policy.
This development comes at a particularly sensitive time, with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine highlighting the crucial role NATO plays in deterring Russian expansionism. The UK government now faces mounting pressure to address these security concerns publicly and outline a clear strategy for maintaining Western unity.
