NATO Chief Meets Trump to Address Alliance's Future Amid U.S. Skepticism

Mark Rutte visits the White House to secure U.S. commitment to NATO and address defense spending concerns as allies navigate shifting dynamics.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss U.S. support for the alliance and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Trump has criticized NATO allies for insufficient defense spending, demanding members increase their contributions to 5% of GDP, up from the current 2% target.
European nations are forming independent defense blocs and revising NATO defense plans to reduce reliance on U.S. military assets, reflecting concerns over U.S. commitment.
Rutte, known for his diplomatic skills with Trump, faces the challenge of maintaining U.S. involvement in NATO while addressing the president's transactional approach to alliances.
The meeting comes as NATO allies hold emergency talks in Paris on Ukraine and broader defense strategies, highlighting growing fractures within the alliance.