A former Trump envoy to Ukraine criticized NATO’s lack of engagement in Iran, suggesting a potential “new NATO” including Poland and other willing nations.
Former Trump Envoy Criticizes NATO’s Response
Keith Kellogg, a former U.S. envoy to Ukraine, publicly criticized NATO for its perceived lack of commitment to addressing the situation in Iran on FOX News.
Kellogg characterized NATO members as “cowards” and suggested the possibility of invoking Article 13 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which allows for withdrawal from the alliance after a one-year notice period.
Potential for New Alliances, Including Poland
Kellogg proposed the formation of a new defensive structure, potentially including countries like Japan, Australia, Germany, and Poland, alongside Ukraine.
He stated that a new alliance could be formed by those “ready to fight,” reshaping current defense arrangements.
U.S. Officials Question NATO’s Value
Secretary of State Marco Rubio questioned the value of NATO, suggesting a reassessment is necessary.
Rubio stated that if NATO’s primary function is solely defending Europe while denying the U.S. access to necessary bases, it may not be a sustainable arrangement.
Trump Considers U.S. Withdrawal from NATO
Donald Trump indicated in “The Telegraph” that he is seriously considering withdrawing the U.S. from the alliance.
Trump described NATO as a “paper tiger” and claimed that Vladimir Putin shares this assessment.
Demands for NATO Involvement in Strait of Hormuz
Trump is demanding NATO involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has closed following U.S.-Israeli attacks.
Trump’s Call for Self-Reliance
Trump urged countries reliant on air fuel access through the Strait of Hormuz, such as Great Britain, to purchase fuel from the U.S. and “take” what they need from the strait.
He asserted that the U.S. will no longer provide assistance and that Iran has been “decimated.”
Analysis: NATO’s Defensive Nature and European Resolve
Analysts note that Trump and his allies appear to misunderstand NATO’s fundamentally defensive nature.
Europe is prepared for collective defense but may not align with every U.S. initiative, raising questions about the alliance’s future.
