US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised NATO and renewed his controversial remarks about Greenland, following talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House.
Trump accused the alliance of failing to support the United States during the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, saying, “NATO wasn’t there when we needed them and they won’t be there if we need them again.”
In a post on his Truth Social platform, he added, “Remember Greenland, that big, poorly run, piece of ice,” reviving his earlier threats to seize the territory from NATO ally Denmark — a move that has alarmed European partners.
The remarks came shortly after a closed-door meeting between Trump and Rutte. Speaking to CNN, Rutte declined to directly answer whether Trump had indicated any intention to withdraw from NATO.
“Let me be absolutely clear. He is clearly disappointed, and with many NATO allies. And I can see his point,” Rutte said.
He, however, stressed that most European nations have supported NATO operations through basing, logistics and overflight arrangements, and have sought to meet their commitments.
Rutte also noted broad support among allies for efforts to weaken Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, adding that only the United States currently has the capacity to carry out such actions.
Describing the meeting, Rutte said the discussion with Trump was “very frank” and “open.”