Donald Trump is reportedly considering withdrawing the U.S. from NATO, prompting alarm from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky about European security reliance.
Trump Threatens NATO Withdrawal
In early April, U.S. President Donald Trump told the British newspaper “The Telegraph” that he was seriously considering withdrawing the United States from the North Atlantic Alliance, which he called a “paper tiger.”
Zelensky: Europe’s Security Without Ukraine and Turkey
Volodymyr Zelensky stated that without Ukraine and Turkey, Europe would be unable to match Russia’s strength. He made these remarks on the “The Rest Is Politics” podcast on Friday, April 10th.
Zelensky argued that if the U.S. were to withdraw from NATO, European security would rely solely on the European Union, but not in its current form, stating the EU needs more member states.
Four Nations Key to European Defense
Zelensky identified the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Turkey, and Norway as four strong European nations with combined military power exceeding that of Russia. He emphasized that without Ukraine and Turkey, Europe cannot equal Russia’s capabilities.
He believes these four countries together could control the seas, secure airspace, and possess the largest land forces, urging Europe to prioritize its security and independence.
Reported U.S. Troop Withdrawal Discussions
Reuters reported on Thursday that the Trump administration is discussing withdrawing some U.S. troops from Europe. The agency cited a high-ranking White House official.
Trump reportedly discussed the possibility with advisors, fueled by frustration over a lack of allied support for securing the Strait of Hormuz and disappointment over the failed attempt to acquire Greenland.
No Decision Yet, Transatlantic Tensions Remain
Reuters noted that no decision has been made, and the Pentagon has not been directed to prepare plans. However, the discussions highlight strained transatlantic relations, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s recent visit to Washington did not significantly improve the situation.
Potential Troop Repositioning
The Reuters source did not specify which countries might be affected. The “Wall Street Journal” reported on Wednesday, during Trump’s meeting with Rutte, that options were being considered to “punish” allies like Spain and Germany for insufficient support in the conflict with Iran by shifting troops from those countries to Poland, Romania, Lithuania, or Greece. Reuters reports focus on a withdrawal of troops back to the U.S.