Donald Trump reportedly developed a list of NATO allies based on their perceived support, potentially retaliating against those who didn’t back his Iran policy.
Trump’s Prior Calls for Increased Defense Spending
In December 2025, then-U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth urged NATO and U.S. allies to increase their defense spending as a percentage of GDP, stating the U.S. “will no longer tolerate freeloading.”
Hegseth indicated that allies demonstrating commitment, such as Israel, South Korea, Poland, Germany, and Baltic states, would receive increased U.S. support, while those failing to meet collective defense obligations would face consequences.
‘Naughty and Nice’ List Emerges
According to one diplomat, the concept of dividing countries based on NATO engagement aligns with Hegseth’s idea. A White House source reportedly maintains a list categorizing allies as “naughty or nice.”
One European official suggested the Trump administration is still formulating how to punish “bad allies,” with options like troop redeployment being considered, though potentially costly for the U.S.
Demands for Assistance Regarding Iran
Trump, known for his criticism of NATO, reportedly created the list as he sought ways to penalize allies who did not support his stance on Iran. He expressed frustration with NATO’s perceived lack of support on Truth Social.
Trump’s Criticism of NATO’s Value
Trump speculated that if NATO didn’t assist the U.S. regarding Iran, it wouldn’t offer help in future crises. He criticized NATO as a “one-way street,” claiming the U.S. protects allies without receiving reciprocal support, particularly when needed.
He further stated that without the U.S., NATO is a “paper tiger.”
Demands for Help with the Strait of Hormuz
Trump demanded NATO’s assistance in reopening the Strait of Hormuz after it was closed following a U.S.-Israeli attack, impacting oil prices. He accused allies of complaining about high oil prices while refusing to assist with a simple military maneuver.
On April 1st, Trump suggested in an interview with “The Telegraph” that he was “seriously considering” withdrawing the United States from NATO.
