NATO Chief Says Europe Heeds Trump's Defense Demands

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced that European nations have responded to U.S. President Donald Trump's calls for increased defense commitments and military base access, according to reports from Reuters, TimesLIVE, Al Jazeera, and Los Angeles Times.

The statement comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and its European allies over support for the Iran war. Rutte made the remarks at a European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Armenia, acknowledging 'some disappointment' from the U.S. side but emphasizing that Europeans have listened and are taking action.

Rutte highlighted that several NATO countries, including Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Britain, France, and Germany, are implementing requests for base use and logistical support. However, Spain has refused to allow the U.S. to launch attacks on Iran from its territory or military bases.

Rutte also noted that 'more and more' European nations are pre-positioning assets such as minehunters and minesweepers near the Gulf in preparation for a potential 'next phase.' Multiple European countries have expressed willingness to participate in ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz once the war ends. The announcements follow Trump's decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany.

European leaders are stressing increased defense spending and capabilities amid global tensions, including Russia's assault on Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Europeans are taking their destiny into their own hands by building common solutions for security and defense.