Explosive claims have surfaced, revealing a shocking revelation by European Commissioner Thierry Breton that former President Donald Trump explicitly conveyed to European leaders that the United States would not come to their aid in the event of a military attack. This disclosure, made during an event in the European Parliament in Brussels, unveils a strained dynamic between Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in 2020.
Breton asserts that Trump delivered a blunt message, stating, “‘You need to understand that if Europe is under attack, we will never come to help you and to support you.'” This startling revelation has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, exposing the tense relationship between the former President and European leaders during his tenure.
The French European Commissioner’s recollection goes beyond the warning of non-intervention. Trump, as per Breton, continued to declare, “‘By the way, NATO is dead, and we will leave, we will quit NATO.'” If accurate, this statement raises questions about the future of NATO under Trump’s presidency and adds another layer to his stance on international alliances.
Adding a financial dimension to the geopolitical mix, Breton claims that Trump insisted, “‘And by the way, you owe me $400 billion because you didn’t pay, you Germans, what you had to pay for defense.'” This reported demand further intensifies debates surrounding defense spending among NATO members, an issue Trump frequently emphasized during his term.
If proven true, these allegations could reshape the narrative surrounding Trump’s approach to international relations and defense commitments. Breton’s account provides a rare glimpse into closed-door conversations, shedding light on how the U.S. is perceived by its allies.
The reported remarks underscore Trump’s transactional approach to diplomacy, where financial obligations and perceived shortcomings in defense spending became central points of contention. This revelation adds complexity to the legacy of Trump’s foreign policy, emphasizing a more transactional and unpredictable approach in dealing with traditional allies.
It’s noteworthy that these allegations emerge at a time when global security concerns and the role of NATO are under renewed scrutiny. Breton’s account raises questions about the impact of such statements on the confidence and trust that underpin international alliances.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Trump camp in response to Breton’s revelations. The unfolding situation continues to draw attention to the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy and the challenges posed by a transactional approach to alliances.