Trump Tests NATO Unity at Ankara Summit

European NATO leaders are trying to persuade US President Donald Trump to reaffirm Washington’s commitment to the alliance at a summit in Ankara, after he revived disputes over Iran, Greenland and the US military presence in Europe.

Before the talks, Trump criticized NATO for allegedly failing to provide sufficient support to the US during the war with Iran and did not rule out further troop withdrawals from Europe.

European countries have sought to ease tensions by unveiling new defense contracts worth at least $50bn, responding to long-standing US demands for higher defense spending.

Trump also criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over Iran and repeated his claim that the US should control Greenland, a position rejected by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

A draft summit declaration reaffirms NATO’s “ironclad commitment” to collective defense, though it will only be issued after approval by leaders.

European allies say they are ready to take on a greater share of responsibility for Europe’s security, but want any reduction in the US military presence to be coordinated and not to weaken defenses against Russia.

(Reuters, mja)