Siobhan Robbins, Europe Correspondent
The German chancellor has hit back at Donald Trump’s NATO comments, saying the “relativization” of the alliance’s mutual defense provisions is “dangerous” and will only benefit Russia.
Olaf Scholz did not mention the former US president by name, but suggested that Trump may not be able to protect NATO allies from possible Russian aggression if the US does not spend enough on defense. His comments came after he sparked anger.
“It is irresponsible and dangerous to relativize NATO’s support guarantees,” Scholz told reporters after a meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. “It exclusively serves Russia’s interests. No one should toy with or trade with European security.”
Citing the motto of the Three Musketeers, he said NATO’s “promise of protection applies unconditionally: all for one and one for all.”
Poland’s president made a similar statement after a meeting with the French president earlier in the day, saying that in the face of growing security concerns, there was no other option than the EU, NATO and US partnership.
Poland, France and Germany also vowed to strengthen Europe amid concerns that Trump’s return to the White House could lead to more Russian aggression.
As the war in Ukraine approaches its third year, Tusk visited Paris and then Berlin to seek stronger ties with Europe’s two largest powers.
He argued that the European Union would become a “military power” in its own right, saying: “There is no reason why our country is clearly inferior to Russia militarily. Therefore, it is imperative that we increase production and strengthen cooperation.” “This is an undisputed priority.”
What did Trump say?
Trump caused alarm at a campaign rally by claiming that Russia could be “encouraged” to invade NATO allies that have not met their defense spending targets.
“You didn’t pay. You’re a delinquent. Yes, let’s say that happened. No, I won’t protect you. In fact, I’ll encourage them to do whatever they want,” he said. warned.
NATO member states are supposed to ideally devote 2% of their national income to defense.
Poland reached this level long ago, but Germany was targeted for failing to do so during President Trump’s time in office.
Berlin has ramped up defense spending in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine, and is expected to hit the mark this year.