The meeting between Trump and Rutte is taking place against a backdrop of tensions between the US and Europe
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is paying another visit to the White House in an attempt to prevent relations between the US and its NATO allies from deteriorating. This comes against the backdrop of the conflict over Iran, which has strained transatlantic relations, reports Politico.
President Donald Trump has become increasingly critical of European partners. According to a US administration official, his frustration over allies’ refusal to participate in action against Iran persists even during closed-door discussions.
Trump has also stated that he is reviewing the US’s role in NATO. At the same time, he cannot formally withdraw the country from the Alliance without a decision by the Senate or Congress, but he has other tools at his disposal to reduce involvement, including cutting funding, reducing the military presence in Europe or curtailing the exchange of intelligence.
During a press conference, the president linked his attitude towards NATO to Europe’s stance on Greenland, when allies failed to support his initiative regarding Denmark.
At the same time, dissatisfaction with US policy is also growing in Europe. This complicates the task facing Rutte, who is trying to preserve the Alliance’s unity amid rising anti-American sentiment.
According to one European official, support for the US among European partners is at a very low level. Some countries are also expressing dissatisfaction that their concessions have not led to an improvement in relations.
European states have refused to send troops to the Persian Gulf and, in some cases, have restricted the use of their bases and airspace for US operations. Some leaders have publicly criticised Trump’s stance, notably French President Emmanuel Macron.
The White House stated that Trump expects fair treatment of the US and is dissatisfied with the actions of allies during the operation against Iran.
Rutte’s meeting with Trump comes shortly after the deadline set by the president regarding Iran. On Tuesday, he announced his agreement to a temporary ceasefire.
NATO notes that during the talks, they plan to discuss the security situation, including Iran, as well as issues of defence industry cooperation.
Alliance diplomats believe that Rutte will seek to emphasise NATO’s importance to US interests and ascertain Washington’s expectations of its allies. At the same time, no new initiatives regarding Iran are expected to be announced following the meeting.
Former US Ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker noted that Rutte is in a difficult position, as he is the one who can influence Trump’s attitude towards cooperation with allies.
