Trump Berates NATO, Praises Erdogan as Summit Starts

U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Ankara for a NATO summit, immediately expressing disappointment with European allies over their support during the Iran conflict. He singled out Italy, Germany, and France for denying U.S. forces access to bases at the start of the tensions.

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I was very disappointed with NATO.

Trump's arrival was marked by a personal greeting from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The U.S. president praised their "chemistry," stating that Erdogan's strong leadership in Turkey was a key factor in his decision to attend the summit. This relationship is seen by NATO officials as potentially easing tensions within the alliance, which have been strained by Trump's critiques of defense spending and other issues.

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Frankly, if it (the summit) weren't held in Türkiye, where my friend happens to be a very strong leader, a very strong person, it's possible that I wouldn't have attended.

Adding to the complex dynamics, Trump indicated that the U.S. would consider selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, a significant shift after the U.S. removed Ankara from the F-35 program in 2019 due to its acquisition of Russian S-400 missile systems. Erdogan stated that Trump had personally given his word on the matter, suggesting a potential breakthrough for Turkey's defense projects.

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It's a chemistry that works between us.

European leaders are attempting to navigate Trump's unpredictable approach, particularly his past questioning of U.S. commitment to allied defense. Ahead of the main sessions, NATO allies have announced substantial arms deals to demonstrate increased defense spending, a key demand from the U.S. president. Trump also reiterated his controversial stance on Greenland, suggesting it should be controlled by the United States.

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Mr. Trump has also personally given us his word on this matter.