Trump causes tension at NATO summit as alliance grapples with European rearmament
At the NATO summit in Ankara, Donald Trump repeated his Greenland acquisition idea and criticized allies for not joining his Iran war, while leaders discussed strengthening European defense and air defense systems.
At the NATO summit in Ankara, US President Donald Trump has been the center of attention, given a ceremonial welcome by his friend, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump arrived to a military parade, and the two leaders walked arm-in-arm while the US anthem played.
However, Trump once again proved to be a disruptor at the summit, making controversial statements. Shortly after landing, he repeated his idea about the US taking over Greenland, a part of NATO member Denmark. Denmark's prime minister has previously said such a move would spell the end of the alliance.
Trump also expressed bitterness that NATO allies did not join his war of choice against Iran, launched without consulting allies. He singled out UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for criticism, despite Starmer allowing US airstrikes from British bases.
The British delegation has highlighted defense collaboration with European partners, but Starmer's Defence Investment Plan is criticized for being billions short of the requirements.
NATO delegates are seriously discussing European rearmament and defense industry cooperation. Major contracts have been announced for Airbus transport aircraft and Sweden's GlobeEye planes to replace the aging AWACS fleet.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, also present at the summit, urged for effective anti-ballistic systems and missiles. "Europe needs affordable mass-produced anti-ballistic systems as soon as possible. This cannot wait until 2030 or beyond," Zelensky said.
Participants fear that after the war in Ukraine, Russia will rapidly rearm and could threaten NATO territory within four years.
