In the midst of the electoral campaign for the next US presidential elections, with the current candidate and president under attack for his age, gaffes and falls, Donald Trump stated that he would encourage Russia to do “whatever the devil wants” to any NATO member country that he does not comply with defense spending guidelines, arguing that he will not respect the collective defense clause if re-elected.
“I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want” – At a rally in Conway, South Carolina, the former president – facing several trials for his conduct and without immunity for the trial of the assault on Capitol Hill, said that “one of the presidents of a great country” at one point he asked him if the United States would still defend the country if it were invaded by Russia, even if “it didn’t pay”, respecting the Alliance’s spending guidelines, therefore spending less than 2% of GDP on defense. “If we don’t pay, will you still protect us?” he asked. “Absolutely not,” Trump responded. “If you don’t pay you’re a criminal. I wouldn’t protect you,” she said she responded. “In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You have to pay. You have to pay your bills.” A statement that the White House describes as “frightening and crazy”.
The White House: “Scary words” – A White House spokesperson said the billionaire “encourages invasions of our closest allies by murderous regimes” and called his words “frightening and shocking, adding that the statement “endangers America’s national security, stability global economy and our domestic economy.”
NATO: “The security of all of us is at risk, including that of the USA – “NATO remains ready to defend all its allies. Every statement that talks about the possibility that member countries will not defend each other puts the security of all of us at risk, including that of the USA, and exposes American and European soldiers to increasing risks – says NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg – I expect that regardless of who wins the presidential election, the United States will remain a strong and faithful ally within NATO”.
Michel: “Statements for Putin” – “The Transatlantic Alliance has supported the security and prosperity of Americans, Canadians and Europeans for 75 years, the reckless declarations of NATO security and solidarity of art. 5 they only serve Putin’s interestsdo not bring greater security or peace to the world – declared the President of the European Council Charles Michel in a post on their official profile – On the contrary, they reiterate the need for the EU to further and urgently develop its strategic autonomy and invest in its defense. And to keep our Alliance strong.”