06.07.2026 21:30
While US President Donald Trump's statements at the Ankara summit are eagerly awaited, as he has criticized European countries, especially Spain, for allocating less budget to NATO and threatened to leave the alliance, a striking remark has emerged. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said, 'The United States does not plan to withdraw from NATO, but it is actively exploring ways to take a less prominent role in the alliance.'
As US President Donald Trump's budget criticisms toward NATO allies continue, US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker made a critical statement. Speaking ahead of the NATO summit to be held in Ankara, Whitaker stated that the United States does not plan to fully withdraw from the alliance, but that they are actively exploring ways to reduce the US role and responsibility in the alliance to encourage allies to increase their defense spending.
"WE EXPECT OUR ALLIES TO TAKE MORE RESPONSIBILITY"
Whitaker said: "We expect our allies to take responsibility by becoming more capable. This started with the 5 percent Hague Defense Commitment. But ultimately, it is about having frigates, submarines, aircraft, and all the capabilities needed to deter our adversaries, defend the Alliance, and keep America safe."
"WE DO NOT PLAN TO WITHDRAW FROM NATO"
The United States does not plan to withdraw from NATO, but we are actively exploring ways to take a lesser role in this alliance.
This is how we preserve peace through strength: by standing united, investing together, and ensuring that the NATO Alliance moves at the pace required by the times and is ready today for tomorrow's challenges."