US urges NATO to prove alliance's benefits for Washington

Washington (ANTARA) - US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker on Thursday urged NATO member countries to explain to the United States how the alliance remains beneficial for Washington.

“The President will make the decision. He will say whether the United States will continue this relationship or not,” Whitaker told Fox News. “Now is the time for our NATO allies to explain why they are beneficial to the United States and to increase their support.”

The envoy also highlighted differences in approach between the United States and European countries, noting that Washington prioritises action, while its European allies tend to emphasise dialogue and discussion.

Whitaker further announced that he would travel to Washington next week with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to meet with President Trump.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump stated that he is seriously considering the US withdrawal from NATO following the alliance’s refusal to assist in its operations against Iran.

Previously, US President Donald Trump criticised NATO for not supporting his military operations against Iran, calling it a “major mistake.” He assessed that this stance reflects an unbalanced relationship within the alliance.

Trump said the military operation against Iran was a test of NATO’s support for the US, and Washington is disappointed with the alliance’s position and will not forget it. Assistance from NATO is no longer needed, he said.