NATO chief says Europeans have ‘gotten the message’ from Trump on defence

Lead

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said European leaders have "gotten the message" from US President Donald Trump, acknowledging US disappointment over European reluctance to support the war in Iran. Speaking at a European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Armenia, Rutte said European countries are taking steps to ensure existing agreements on the use of military bases are upheld.

The remarks come after the US announced plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that has prompted European leaders to call for a stronger European pillar within NATO.

Coverage comparison

Rutte's comments were reported by multiple outlets, with variations in focus. Al Jazeera emphasized Trump's frustration with NATO allies, while Deutsche Welle presented a more neutral tone, highlighting Europe's commitment to strengthening NATO. The Jerusalem Post reported that European nations are implementing requests for the use of bases, and TASS — English noted that Rutte declined to comment directly on the US troop withdrawal.

Key claims

• Rutte said there has been "disappointment from the US side" over European nations' resistance to joining the Iran war, but that Europeans have "listened" and are now making sure bilateral basing agreements are implemented.
• The Pentagon announced plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany on Friday, a move that European Union top diplomat Kaja Kallas called a "surprise" in its timing.
• Kallas added that the drawdown shows the need to strengthen the European pillar in NATO and do more, stressing that US troops in Europe protect both European and American interests.
• Rutte cited NATO countries such as Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Britain, France and Germany as implementing requests for the use of bases and logistical support, while Spain has said its military bases cannot be used for the Iran war.
• Rutte also said more European nations were pre-positioning assets such as minehunters and minesweepers near the Gulf in preparation for a "next phase," according to the Jerusalem Post.

Perspectives

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte: He acknowledged US disappointment but framed it as a message received, saying Europe is "stepping up" for a bigger role and a stronger NATO.

Kaja Kallas, EU top diplomat: She called the timing of the US announcement a surprise and argued that strengthening the European pillar in NATO is necessary.

Emmanuel Macron, French President: He addressed the troop withdrawal by saying Europe needed to learn to live without depending on the US for defence, as reported by Deutsche Welle.