Trump Backs NATO’s Article 5 Mutual Defense Commitment

In a dramatic 180-degree turn, U.S. President Donald Trump voiced his support for NATO’s Article 5 following the historic agreement to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. Initially hesitant about collective defense commitments, Trump’s stance reassured anxious European allies during the NATO summit in The Hague. Just a day earlier, he had questioned NATO’s defense clause, sparking concerns among allies about potential U.S. withdrawal from the alliance and broader collective security. Speaking at a press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Trump emphasized his commitment: “I stand by it; that’s why I’m here.” Bloomberg reported similar sentiments, highlighting Trump’s unwavering support for mutual defense obligations. This declaration marked a critical victory for NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who meticulously organized the summit to focus on members’ plans to boost spending, minimize friction with the U.S. president, and secure the commitment of the world’s largest economy and strongest military to NATO’s mutual defense pact. Trump’s comments were welcomed by allies amid one of NATO’s most challenging periods, as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war enters its fourth year. Concerns persist over potential U.S. troop and weapons withdrawal from Europe and whether Washington will abandon Kyiv or shift responsibility for future ceasefires to Europe. Trump has criticized what he sees as excessive reliance on Washington for collective security, urging allies to shoulder more of the burden—a sentiment reinforced by repeated threats not to come to their aid in wartime. During his flight to the Netherlands, Trump backtracked when questioned about Article 5, suggesting it could be interpreted in multiple ways. He also shared a social media post indicating that a majority of his supporters would approve if he decided to withdraw the U.S. from NATO. Despite these tensions, Secretary-General Stoltenberg downplayed them, orchestrating a gathering where leaders flattered Trump, aiming to win him over. At the welcoming dinner Tuesday night, Stoltenberg praised Trump’s leadership for pushing through the decision to increase defense spending to 5%, a significant rise from the current 2%.