Gladness Gideon
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Wednesday sought to allay fears about the United States’ commitment to the alliance, even as President Donald Trump’s administration signals a potential recalibration of transatlantic relations.
Speaking on the eve of a crucial NATO foreign ministers’ meeting, Rutte insisted that Washington remains steadfast in its obligations despite mounting concerns over Trump’s foreign policy direction.
“I’m absolutely convinced this alliance is here to stay with the US. Their commitment is absolutely clear,” Rutte said, addressing anxieties among European allies over recent White House rhetoric.
Since taking office just over two months ago, the Trump administration has sent shockwaves through NATO corridors. The White House has floated the idea of withdrawing US troops from Europe, made overtures toward Russia over Ukraine, and taken an aggressive stance toward NATO member states Canada and Denmark.
Further compounding tensions, Trump is expected to announce trade tariffs later on Wednesday, a move likely to impact NATO economies and add to concerns over Washington’s long-term strategic priorities.
While acknowledging the “tough language” coming from Washington, Rutte emphasized that US officials continue to reaffirm their allegiance to NATO, particularly its core collective defense principle.
“The Americans have stated again and again: ‘We are committed to NATO. We are committed to Article 5,’” Rutte said, referencing the alliance’s mutual defense clause.
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However, Trump’s commitment to NATO comes with a price. In the lead-up to a high-stakes summit in The Hague this June, the US is pressuring allies to drastically increase their defense spending. Washington is now pushing for members to allocate five percent of their GDP to military budgets—a significant hike from the previous two percent target.
“This commitment comes with a clear expectation,” Rutte said. “On this side of the Atlantic and in Canada, we will have to spend more.”
Against this backdrop of shifting policies and mounting financial demands, NATO foreign ministers are set to meet in Brussels on Thursday, where US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will face intense questioning from anxious allies.
Diplomatic sources indicate that European leaders are particularly eager to understand Washington’s broader strategic vision—especially regarding potential negotiations with Moscow and the future of US military deployments in Europe.
As NATO navigates this period of uncertainty, the alliance’s unity is being tested like never before. Whether the upcoming talks in Brussels provide the reassurance allies seek remains to be seen.