US President Donald Trump has said he is weighing the possibility of withdrawing the United States from North Atlantic Treaty Organisation after the alliance declined to support Washington in a potential war against Iran.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Trump described NATO as a “paper tiger”, signalling deep frustration with allies he believes are unwilling to back US military demands.
“Oh yes, I would say it’s beyond reconsideration. I was never swayed by NATO,” Trump said, adding that even Russian President Vladimir Putin recognises the alliance’s perceived weakness.
The comments come amid rising tensions in the Middle East, with Iran reportedly closing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which roughly 20 per cent of global oil supply passes.
Trump has urged NATO allies to deploy warships to reopen the strait, but most member states have resisted the call, raising concerns about escalation.
The US president also singled out the United Kingdom and its Prime Minister Keir Starmer, criticising Britain’s refusal to support US action.
“You don’t even have a navy. You’re too old and had aircraft carriers that didn’t work,” Trump said, in remarks likely to strain transatlantic relations further.
This is not the first time Trump has taken aim at NATO. Earlier this year, he claimed the US had “never needed” the alliance, dismissing the contributions of partner nations during the war in Afghanistan.
His latest comments have already drawn backlash from European leaders, including Starmer, who have defended NATO’s role in maintaining global security.
