Trump NATO Rutte

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has met with President Donald Trump, advocating for the military alliance that the U.S. leader has sharply criticized. Trump argues that his country bears too much of NATO's financial burden, especially after the Iran conflict. Rutte is known for his ability to charm Trump and he aimed to ease tensions during their White House meeting on Wednesday. Trump has renewed threats to leave NATO, raising the stakes before next month's summit in Turkey. Rutte emphasizes European support, noting U.S. military activity in Europe. The Pentagon is reviewing U.S. forces in Europe, echoing Trump's critiques of NATO allies.