NATO’S Rutte seeks to stabilise US relations in Washington

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte will aim to prevent a complete breakdown in relations between the United States and its alliance partners during his Washington visit on April 8, Politico reports.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration over European countries’ reluctance to actively support Washington during its military operation against Iran.

A US administration source noted that "although Trump has swung from saying he’s 'very disappointed' in the alliance’s refusal to engage in Iran to at times downplaying his exasperation, he has been 'very consistent' about his frustration behind closed doors." 

Trump had previously suggested reviewing the US role in NATO, though leaving the alliance would require Congressional approval.

The source added that “he has other ways to reduce our commitment,” without specifying, but Politico notes that Washington could theoretically cut NATO funding, reduce American troop levels in Europe, or halt intelligence sharing with Kyiv.

NATO allies expect Rutte to emphasise the benefits of alliance membership for the United States and to return to Brussels with a better understanding of what exactly he wants from European allies.

Sources also confirmed that Rutte does not intend to propose any NATO initiatives regarding Iran.

An EU official remarked that “Europeans’ appetites to support the U.S are at below zero levels.”

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov