President Donald Trump is reportedly strongly considering removing the U.S. from NATO, which he called a "paper tiger," after members refused to assist the Iran war effort.
In a striking rebuke of longtime allies, Trump told The Telegraph that NATO has failed to meet expectations during a critical moment in global security, calling the alliance ineffective and unreliable.
"Oh yes, I would say [it's] beyond reconsideration," Trump said after being asked about withdrawing from NATO.
"I was never swayed by NATO. I always knew they were a paper tiger, and [Russian President Vladimir] Putin knows that too."
The comments come after NATO members declined Trump's push to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane through which roughly 20% of the world's oil supply typically flows.
Iran's effective closure of the strait has rattled global energy markets and raised fears of a broader economic downturn.
The White House has grown increasingly frustrated with European allies for refusing to commit naval support, The Telegraph reported, and Trump suggested the lack of action exposes a one-sided relationship.
"We've been there automatically," Trump said, referencing past U.S. commitments to allies, including Ukraine. "They weren't there for us."
Trump also singled out British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, criticizing the United Kingdom's military readiness and energy priorities.
The president suggested Britain's focus on renewable energy policies has come at the expense of defense capabilities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Trump's concerns, warning that NATO may no longer serve U.S. interests if allies continue to deny critical military cooperation.
Rubio said the alliance could face a serious reassessment after the Iran conflict concludes.
"If NATO is just about us defending Europe if they're attacked, but them denying us basing rights when we need them, that's not a very good arrangement," Rubio told Fox News. "That's a hard one to stay engaged in."
Meanwhile, Trump has signaled a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy, urging allies to take greater responsibility for their own security and energy needs.
On Tuesday, Trump told countries struggling with oil shortages to "buy from the U.S." or "build up some delayed courage" and secure resources themselves.
"You'll have to start learning how to fight for yourself," Trump wrote on Truth Social, emphasizing that American support should not be taken for granted.
The administration is also reportedly considering structural changes to NATO, including a "pay-to-play" model that would limit influence for countries failing to meet defense spending commitments.
Additionally, Trump is weighing a potential withdrawal of U.S. troops from Germany.
The debate has renewed scrutiny of NATO's Article 5 mutual defense clause, which has been invoked only once, following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Critics argue the current Iran conflict does not obligate NATO involvement, while supporters say allies should still back U.S. strategic efforts.
Trump is expected to address the nation Wednesday night with an update on the Iran war, which he said could conclude within weeks.
The stated objective remains preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Charlie McCarthy ✉
Charlie McCarthy, a writer/editor at Newsmax, has nearly 40 years of experience covering news, sports, and politics.
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