French President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed France’s strong support for NATO after U.S. President Donald Trump cast fresh doubts on the alliance’s defense commitments, raising concerns over transatlantic security.
Macron Stresses France’s Commitment to NATO Amid Rising Tensions
French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated France’s unwavering commitment to NATO, following recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump questioning whether the alliance would stand by the U.S. in the event of an attack.
Speaking during a press briefing at the EU Summit in Brussels, Macron highlighted the historic ties between France and the United States. Citing past instances of solidarity, including French support during the American Revolutionary War, Macron made clear that France remains a “loyal and steadfast ally” within the NATO alliance.
“France has consistently shown respect and friendship towards the U.S., and it is only fair to expect the same in return,” Macron stated.
Trump Reopens NATO Defense Debate
On Thursday, President Trump reignited his criticism of NATO’s mutual defense agreement, known as Article 5, which requires members to protect each other if any member is attacked.
“If they don’t pay, I won’t defend them,” Trump told reporters, repeating his long-standing argument that NATO allies must increase their defense spending. Trump further questioned whether countries like France would defend the U.S. under the same circumstances.
Historical NATO Support for the U.S.
Despite Trump’s doubts, NATO has previously demonstrated its commitment to the U.S. After the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, NATO invoked Article 5 for the first time in history, leading to a joint military operation in Afghanistan in support of the United States.
NATO Leaders Reaffirm Alliance Strength
In response to Trump’s remarks, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that the alliance remains strong and united.
“The transatlantic partnership remains the cornerstone of NATO,” Rutte said during a media briefing. “The U.S. commitment to NATO is clear, and European allies continue to increase their defense contributions.”
Trump’s nominee for NATO ambassador, Matt Whitaker, also reassured members that the U.S. commitment to NATO and Article 5 is “ironclad,” seeking to calm concerns from European partners.
Growing Defense Spending Among NATO Members
Recent data shows that a record 23 of NATO’s 32 member countries have met the alliance’s 2% defense spending goal. Many leaders attribute this increase to Trump’s previous pressure during his first term.
However, Trump maintains that NATO allies must contribute more and insists the financial burden on the U.S. remains too high.
Looking Ahead for NATO’s Future
As global security challenges persist, particularly amid ongoing tensions with Russia, France and other NATO members are working to reaffirm the alliance’s purpose. Macron’s remarks aim to reassure NATO partners that France stands ready to honor its commitments and defend shared interests.
The future of NATO’s unity remains a central topic as leaders navigate financial disagreements, defense responsibilities, and geopolitical threats.