Former US President Donald Trump has asserted that Russia and China are not afraid of NATO without the United States, shortly after the US seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela. Trump claimed on Truth Social that his leadership compelled NATO allies to increase defense spending, deterring Russia and China and safeguarding Ukraine. He raised doubts about NATO’s commitment to aiding the US in a crisis, highlighting his military rebuilding efforts during his first term.
Trump emphasized that he boosted NATO members’ defense spending from 2% to 5% of GDP and criticized past US contributions. He insisted that his actions prevented Russia from taking over Ukraine and claimed credit for ending eight wars. Trump also criticized Norway for not awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize and questioned NATO’s value to the US.
The ex-president stated that Russia and China only fear a US rebuilt under his administration and questioned NATO’s loyalty to America. He expressed commitment to NATO, even if reciprocity is lacking. Trump’s NATO remarks followed White House statements on considering Greenland a national security priority, sparking tensions with Denmark and NATO.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt suggested that US control of Greenland would counter Chinese and Russian influence in the Arctic. She highlighted strategic advantages and deterrence against aggression in the region. Moreover, Trump’s recent actions in Venezuela, including the seizure of Venezuelan-linked oil tankers, have raised concerns among NATO members.
The US Southern Command seized the M/T Sophia oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea for engaging in illicit activities. Simultaneously, the US European Command intercepted the Russian-flagged Marinera vessel in the North Atlantic for violating US sanctions on Venezuelan oil. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed British support for the operation in the Atlantic involving the Marinera interception.