NATO Chief Mark Rutte in ZDF: "I Can Get Along Well with Donald Trump"

Background

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg recently sat down with German television network ZDF for an interview. During the interview, Stoltenberg discussed a range of topics, including the upcoming NATO summit in Brussels and the alliance's relationship with the United States under President Donald Trump.

Stoltenberg's Comments on Trump

When asked about his relationship with Trump, Stoltenberg said that he "can get along well" with the US president. He also said that he believes Trump is "committed to NATO" and that the US remains "the most important ally" for the alliance.

Stoltenberg's comments come at a time when the relationship between the US and NATO has been strained. Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO, calling it "obsolete" and demanding that other members increase their defense spending. He has also threatened to withdraw the US from the alliance if other members do not meet his demands.

Analysis

Stoltenberg's comments are significant because they suggest that he believes the US remains committed to NATO despite Trump's rhetoric. This is important because the US is the alliance's most powerful member, and its withdrawal would significantly weaken NATO.

However, it is important to note that Stoltenberg's comments do not mean that Trump's rhetoric has not had an impact on NATO. Trump's criticisms have created uncertainty about the future of the alliance and have led some members to question the US's commitment to NATO.

Conclusion

Stoltenberg's comments are a sign that he is trying to reassure NATO members that the US remains committed to the alliance. However, it is clear that Trump's rhetoric has had a negative impact on NATO, and it remains to be seen whether the alliance can weather the storm.