Germany expresses ‘concern’ over Trump’s threats to leave NATO

The German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, expressed this Friday his “concern” about the threats by US President Donald Trump about the country’s possible departure from NATO in retaliation for what he considers a lack of support from its member states in the face of the offensive against Iran and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

“Your comments worry me, of course,” said the head of German diplomacy, who stated, however, that he believes that an exit from the Alliance “can still be avoided.” “I believe that our commitment and determination will keep the United States with us in this success story,” he said.

In this sense, he pointed out that there is “a clear commitment and support” and has highlighted its “enormous importance” for the security of Germany and “of all the countries of the Alliance”, which is now “stronger than ever”. On this matter, he recalled the accession of Sweden and Finland and underlined the countries’ commitment to investing 5% of GDP in defense.

Furthermore, he stressed that Trump “cannot decide whether to leave NATO on his own. He will need at least the approval of the Senate,” he asserted, while pointing out that NATO “has enormous importance within Germany’s security framework.”

On Wednesday, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to NATO after Trump raised the possibility of withdrawal and redoubled his criticism of European partners for not supporting him in the war in Iran.

“The EU and its allies are stronger together and, in this context, NATO remains key,” stressed the spokesperson, who did not want to assess Trump’s threats to pressure EU countries to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.