Trump's endorsement of Russian aggression unsettles NATO allies, White House condemns
" President Biden has revitalized our alliances and fortifies our global position because he acknowledges the primary duty of any leader: to ensure the safety of American citizens," Andrew Bates, the White House spokesman, responded in light of Donald Trump's startling statement.
12:05 PM EST, February 11, 2024
"The encouragement of potentially murderous regimes to invade our closest allies is both horrifying and ludicrous. Such a sentiment threatens American security, global stability, and our economy," he underscored.
Trump's Controversial Remarks
During a campaign rally in South Carolina, Donald Trump slammed NATO countries for their unwillingness to augment their defense spending.
He narrated an undisclosed conversation with a leader from a NATO member country. The leader queried if the US would defend their country in the event of an inadequate military budget and an assault from Russia.
"No, I wouldn't defend you. In fact, I might even encourage them (the Russians) to proceed as they see fit. You need to pay. It's your vital duty to pay your bills," Trump decided.
Pursuant to the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014, NATO countries consented to escalate defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2024. The Guardian reports that in 2022, only seven out of 31 countries have met this commitment. However, the situation started changing quickly following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
