Donald Trump said the United States will conduct a major review of its financial contribution to NATO, criticizing allies for what he described as a lack of support during recent tensions involving Iran.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Trump expressed frustration that NATO members were not actively engaged during what he referred to as U.S. operations linked to the Iran conflict, while later attempting to benefit from the security situation.
“They were not there for us. Now they want to help, but there is no real threat anymore,” Trump said, questioning the timing of allied engagement.
He also raised broader concerns about the value of U.S. membership in the alliance, arguing that Washington has carried a disproportionate share of the financial burden for decades.
“We’ve spent trillions of dollars on NATO to protect others, including against Russia. When you think about it, we are protecting Europe from Russia. It’s somewhat absurd,” he added.
The United States has long been the largest financial contributor to NATO, often pressing European allies to increase defense spending and share security responsibilities more evenly.
Recent global tensions, including conflicts involving Iran and wider geopolitical rivalries, have renewed debate over burden-sharing within the alliance.
Trump’s remarks highlight growing political pressure in Washington over NATO funding, raising questions about future U.S. commitment to the alliance amid escalating global security challenges.
