CNN: Fears grow over tense NATO summit as Trump's stance unsettles allies

European leaders are concerned that this week's NATO summit in Ankara could be overshadowed by tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, amid uncertainty over his commitment to the alliance and frustration with European allies, officials told CNN.

The July 7–8 summit comes as Trump has voiced increasing dissatisfaction with NATO members, accusing European allies of failing to support the United States following its military action against Iran. Officials familiar with private discussions said many leaders were uncertain whether the meeting would proceed smoothly given the U.S. president's recent rhetoric.

In an effort to avoid confrontation, European governments are expected to present new defence spending commitments aimed at addressing Trump's longstanding demands for greater burden-sharing within the alliance. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also sought to ease tensions during a recent visit to the White House.

Trump said in late June that he was attending the Ankara summit primarily out of respect for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, adding that he would have been unlikely to attend had the meeting been held elsewhere.

The summit takes place against the backdrop of continued disagreements between Washington and several European NATO allies over their positions during the recent U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

By Sabina Mammadli