Theresa May Recalls Struggle to Sway Trump on NATO's Value

During an engaging conversation with Conservative Party supporters in Milton Keynes, Theresa May reflected on her initial encounter with Donald Trump in 2017. At that time, Trump was vocal about the possibility of pulling out of the defense alliance amidst his election campaign.

"I was the first world leader to meet with him post-inauguration," May recounted. "My main objective was to persuade him of the value of NATO, given his campaign rhetoric," she added.

May shared her uncertainty about Trump's stance as they prepared to face the press. "Despite our private discussions, it wasn't clear which direction he would lean," she explained, highlighting Trump's notorious unpredictability and tepid stance on international collaborations. "Thankfully, he opted to support NATO," she concluded.

"The challenge persists with his present inconsistent remarks about NATO. His unpredictability remains a major concern," May expressed.

On March 19, Donald Trump voiced strong criticism towards the European Union in a conversation with Nigel Farage, accusing EU nations of "exploiting the USA" and urging them to meet their NATO commitments.

- "Why should we defend these affluent countries while the US bears most of the cost?" questioned Trump. When probed by the journalist about the US's future in NATO should he return to power, he responded, "Yes, but they need to contribute their fair share."

Trump further claimed the US finances nearly 90 percent of NATO's budget, prompting the journalist to seek a definitive stance: "If NATO operates fairly, will the US remain part of the Alliance?"

Source: Politico, PAP