Former President Donald Trump asserted that Russia and China exhibit no fear of NATO when the United States is not involved, following the US seizure of two oil tankers linked to Venezuela. Trump emphasized on Truth Social that his leadership compelled NATO allies to increase defense spending, deterring Russia and China while safeguarding Ukraine. He raised doubts about NATO’s support for the US in a crisis, highlighting his efforts to boost the country’s military during his first term.
Trump pointed out that NATO members were only contributing 2% of GDP until he took action, pushing them to reach 5% under his administration. He claimed that his interventions prevented Russia from seizing Ukraine and claimed to have ended eight conflicts single-handedly. Trump criticized Norway, a NATO member, for not awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize.
The former president stated that Russia and China do not view NATO as a threat, asserting that they only respect a US under his leadership. He questioned the value of NATO to the US, affirming America’s commitment to the alliance despite doubts about its reciprocity.
Trump’s remarks on NATO followed reports that he considers acquiring Greenland a national security priority, a move that drew warnings from Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen about potential consequences for the alliance. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later suggested that US control of Greenland would serve to counter Chinese and Russian activities in the Arctic region.
In addition to the Greenland issue, Trump’s recent actions in Venezuela have raised concerns among NATO members, particularly with the US military seizing two oil tankers linked to Venezuela. The vessel M/T Sophia was apprehended in the Caribbean Sea, with the US Southern Command reporting its illicit activities and escorting it to the US.
Furthermore, the US European Command announced the seizure of a Russian-flagged vessel, the Marinera, in the North Atlantic for violating US sanctions related to Venezuelan oil. The interception occurred in the waters between Iceland and Scotland, with UK Ministry of Defence forces supporting the operation alongside RAF aircraft and the naval supply ship RFA Tideforce.