Former President Donald Trump has stated that Russia and China do not fear NATO without the United States, following the US seizure of two Venezuela-associated oil tankers. Trump asserted on Truth Social that his leadership compelled NATO allies to increase defense spending, which he believes deterred Russia and China and safeguarded Ukraine. He expressed skepticism about the alliance’s support for the US in a crisis, highlighting his military rebuilding efforts during his first term.
Trump emphasized that prior to his presidency, NATO members were only contributing 2% of their GDP to defense and not fulfilling their financial obligations, whereas he boosted their spending to 5% GDP. He claimed that his actions prevented Russia from taking over Ukraine and claimed credit for ending eight wars. Trump criticized Norway, a NATO member, for not awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize.
The former president contended that Russia and China do not fear NATO, asserting that they only respect a US military rebuilt under his administration. He questioned the value of NATO to America, reaffirming the US’s commitment to the alliance even if reciprocity is lacking.
Trump’s remarks on NATO coincided with reports that he views acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous region of NATO member Denmark, as a “national security priority.” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned of potential repercussions for NATO if the US pursued such an acquisition.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later stated that US control of Greenland would serve as a deterrent to China and Russia in the Arctic region, citing strategic importance. Trump’s recent actions in Venezuela, including the seizure of Venezuelan-linked oil tankers, have raised concerns among NATO members.
The US Southern Command announced the seizure of the M/T Sophia vessel in the Caribbean Sea, citing illicit activities. Simultaneously, the US European Command captured a Russian-flagged vessel, the Marinera, in the North Atlantic for allegedly violating US sanctions. British forces, aided by RAF aircraft and the naval supply ship RFA Tideforce, supported the operation in the Atlantic.