NATO's Rutte: Europe serves as key 'power projection platform' for US

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has sought to downplay tensions with the United States ahead of a crucial meeting with President Donald Trump in Washington, characterizing allied shortcomings during the Iran war as "isolated cases."

Key Points

• Rutte will meet President Trump today at the White House, two weeks before the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey
• The NATO chief aims to smooth over disputes following Trump's criticism of European allies
• Rutte highlighted European support for US operations during the Iran war, including thousands of aircraft movements

Rutte's Defense of European Allies

In an interview with Fox News, Rutte acknowledged disappointment within the Trump administration but urged a measured perspective. "As far as NATO is concerned, I know there is disappointment, but we should also consider that these are isolated cases," he said.

Rutte noted that during the Iran war, US military aircraft conducted "several thousand" takeoffs and landings at bases in European countries. He described the continent as a "platform for power projection" for the United States, emphasizing that European bases—due to their geographic proximity—significantly simplify US military operations in regions such as Africa and the Middle East.

Trump's Criticism

President Trump and other US officials have repeatedly criticized European allies for insufficient support during the US war against Iran, including the denial of permission to use military bases and overflight rights.

On Monday, Trump escalated his criticism, accusing several key allies of failing to respond when Washington requested help. He singled out Great Britain, Germany, and Italy by name.

"We spent all this money. And then when we ask for help, perhaps on small matters... they say: No, we'd rather not help."

The president further stated: "We can respond to them in the same way if we want—and we might do so."

Describing the allies' response as "stupidly" handled, Trump added: "Italy was very bad and other countries too—Germany was very bad."

Ahead of the NATO Summit

Rutte's visit to the White House comes just two weeks before the NATO summit, scheduled to take place in Ankara, Turkey. The discussions are widely seen as an effort to de-escalate tensions and secure allied unity ahead of the meeting.

Source: dpa/saha