16.03.2026 23:30
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized European countries and NATO after failing to receive the expected support for the planned security operation in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, who argued that the U.S. has been ensuring the security of European countries under NATO for years, stated that the fundamental strength of the alliance is the U.S., saying, "If you want, ask Putin about this; Putin is afraid of us, not Europe."
US President Donald Trump made striking statements after not receiving the expected response from European countries regarding the planned security operation in the Strait of Hormuz. Following the reluctance of many European countries, including France, Germany, and the UK, to participate in the operation, Trump used harsh language towards Europe.
Trump claimed that the US has been ensuring the security of European countries under NATO for years and stated that the fundamental strength of the alliance is the US.
"PUTIN IS NOT AFRAID OF EUROPE"
In an attempt to prove his words, Trump turned to Russian President Vladimir Putin. He suggested that while Putin is not afraid of Europe, he is afraid of the military power of the US, emphasizing the deterrence of the American army and arguing that Russia primarily considers Washington.
Trump stated the following in his remarks:
"You can ask Putin; Putin is afraid of us. He is not afraid of Europe, he has no fear of Europe at all. He is afraid of the United States and the army that was built during my first term."
INDIRECT MESSAGE TO EUROPE
Trump's words came after he did not receive the response he expected from the European countries he called upon to participate in the operation in the Strait of Hormuz. Claiming that the US has been ensuring Europe's security under NATO for years, Trump emphasized that the main military strength of the alliance is the US.