Overview
- President Trump labeled NATO a “paper tiger” and said he is strongly considering withdrawal after allies declined to support U.S. combat operations in Iran.
- European governments tightened access for U.S. forces, with Spain blocking bases and airspace, France curbing overflight, Italy denying landings in Sicily, and the UK placing new conditions on base use.
- The White House is considering moving U.S. troops out of less cooperative NATO countries to more supportive hosts, a step observers say could erode the alliance without a formal exit.
- Senate leaders cited a 2023 law that requires two‑thirds approval to leave NATO, signaling that Congress would block any unilateral attempt to quit the treaty.
- NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte has engaged in damage‑control as commentators warn a U.S. pullback could weaken deterrence against Russia, while others argue Europe should accelerate plans for strategic autonomy.