Trump has again cast negative aspersions against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This organization has offered collective security to member countries since its formation in 1949.
However, since President Donald Trump’s first term in office, he has expressed his dissatisfaction with NATO. At first, his focus was on the US monetary contribution, where he claimed that the massive proportion the country pays is unjustified.
Trump wants to withdraw the US from NATO.
Apparently, Trump has made up his mind to withdraw the US from NATO. In an interview with The Telegraph, he reiterated that NATO is a paper tiger. He also affirmed that he is seriously considering withdrawing the US’ membership from the organization, noting that he has always been skeptical of NATO’s effectiveness.
Trump also remarked that Russian President Vladimir Putin is also aware that NATO is inconsequential. This remark might have been elicited from the latest developments, where Russia has dared to openly send its ships through the oceans to Cuba, ignoring the sanctions already imposed on the Communist island.
At the time, the US President’s response when asked about Russia’s move was one of resignation. He responded that Russia or anyone else might as well do as they please. He was quick to add a rejoinder that it was all right for Cuba to receive some assistance to save Cubans from dying, but it is unlikely he cared about Cubans. After all, he has still blocked Venezuela, a close neighbor, from supplying Cuba with oil.
Trump now has a good idea of what Other Leaders think about Him
Trump has certainly learned something new from his actions in the Iran war. The fact that he snubbed the US’ traditional allies before making a huge security decision, and they snubbed him back when he sought military help, must be an eye-opener.
And it is, very likely, the reason he never interfered with the Russian ships, the Anatoly Kolodkin and its armed escort, as they delivered help to Cuba.
As someone who cherishes the “strong-man” image, it is not easy for Trump to view himself and the leaders of the UK and the European Union as equals. Yet their recent reaction towards his call for their involvement seems to be one way of demanding respect.