Rutte: "I don't see the US leaving NATO"

"I don't see the USA leaving Nato," Rutte told Welt am Sonntag. The nuclear protection of Europe by the USA is also not in question. "The American nuclear umbrella is the ultimate guarantor of security here in Europe. And I am convinced that it will remain so."

In recent weeks, statements made by US President Donald Trump had stoked fears of the USA leaving the alliance. Trump criticized what he saw as a lack of support from NATO partners for the war against Iran. The US Senate would have to approve a NATO withdrawal with a two-thirds majority - which is considered highly unlikely.

Rutte met with Trump in the White House around a week and a half ago and said that Trump was "clearly disappointed" with the transatlantic alliance and several partner states. Points of contention with NATO states included the use of military bases and a mission to open the Strait of Hormuz. Trump repeatedly attacked Spain, France and the United Kingdom in particular.

Rutte showed understanding for the US President's annoyance. Trump was visibly disappointed with some Nato members. "And I understand his frustration", Rutte told Welt am Sonntag. With a view to improving Europe's defense, he called for the defense industry to be strengthened. "This is crucial to maintain our deterrence and defense."