Trump calls US support for NATO “ridiculous” ahead of alliance summit

President Donald Trump has described it as “ridiculous” for the United States to continue what he called a “one sided” relationship with NATO, just days before the alliance’s summit in Ankara.

In a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, Trump argued that Washington’s relationship with NATO lacks balance, insisting the arrangement is unfair to the US.

“They were not there for us!!!” Trump wrote, adding that the relationship “is not reciprocal.”

Trump has repeatedly criticised European allies over their handling of the conflict in Iran, particularly after several countries reportedly restricted the use of military bases by US forces.

He has also maintained that Europe should take greater responsibility for its own defence, as Washington continues to scale back some of its commitments.

His latest post included a chart comparing NATO spending, showing the United States contributing significantly more than several other member states.

Following pressure from Trump, NATO leaders agreed last year to increase defence-related spending to five percent of GDP by 2035.

The upcoming NATO summit, which will bring together 32 member nations, is scheduled to take place in the Turkish capital on July 7 and 8.

Founded in 1949, NATO has long served as a US-led defence alliance credited with helping maintain stability in Europe, countering Soviet influence and strengthening Washington’s global influence for decades.