I don’t need them after the war… Donald Trump slams NATO, calls it a ‘paper tiger’

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized NATO, calling it a “paper tiger” and questioning whether Washington should continue defending allies who, according to him, failed to support the United States when it mattered most.

Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative Priority Summit in Miami, Trump said the alliance did not stand by the US during critical moments. He suggested that America should reconsider its commitments, stating, “If they are not there for us, why should we be there for them?”

Criticism of European allies

Trump referred to conversations with European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, claiming that offers of support came only after military operations were over. Quoting Macron, he said, “Once the war is over, we will send ships,” adding, “I don’t need them after the war.”

He also criticized the United Kingdom’s response, saying aircraft carriers would only be available after several weeks. Mocking delayed support, he remarked that allies would arrive “after the war is finished.”

Trump further targeted Germany, alleging that its leadership had distanced itself from the conflict. He claimed Germany’s stance was that it was “not their war,” reinforcing his long-standing skepticism about NATO.

Questions over US commitments

Trump said the lack of timely support strengthened his belief that NATO does not adequately support the US despite heavy American spending on the alliance. He noted that the US spends hundreds of billions of dollars annually on NATO and hinted at a possible reassessment of future commitments.

At the same time, Trump praised several Middle Eastern countries, stating that they stood more firmly with the US compared to NATO members. He said Washington received “tremendous support” from countries outside the NATO bloc.