Trump calls NATO relationship 'ridiculous,' 'unilateral' ahead of summit

NATO leaders are preparing to reaffirm their commitment to collective defense at the upcoming summit in Ankara, Turkey. A draft final declaration, approved by ambassadors, indicates a strong pledge to Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty. The alliance is also expected to commit 70 billion euros in military aid to Ukraine for 2026, with a promise of at least equivalent support in 2027.

However, the summit takes place amidst ongoing criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Since returning to power in 2025, Trump has frequently attacked NATO and its members, accusing them of underfunding their defense and relying too heavily on the United States for European security. His critiques have intensified, leading him to question U.S. commitment to the mutual defense pact and even consider withdrawing from the alliance.

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It is ridiculous that the United States continues on this unilateral path when the relationship (with NATO) is not reciprocal.

Trump publicly stated on Thursday that the U.S. maintaining what he described as a "unilateral" relationship with NATO is "ridiculous." He expressed frustration on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating, "It is ridiculous that the United States continues on this unilateral path when the relationship (with NATO) is not reciprocal." He added, "They were not there for us!!!"

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They were not there for us!!!