Ex-NATO Leader Calls on Europe to Collaborate with Trump to Resolve Ukrainian Conflict
Former NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is encouraging European leaders to increase their defense spending and strengthen transatlantic ties to support President-elect Donald Trump as he returns to power.
In a recent op-ed for The Financial Times, Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of European nations playing a critical role in upholding the integrity of the transatlantic alliance in the face of evolving threats, particularly in response to Trump’s renewed focus on burden-sharing within NATO.
Reflecting on the developments during Trump’s first term in office, Stoltenberg acknowledged improvements in NATO’s defense capabilities and cooperation among member states. However, he stressed the need for European nations to ramp up their efforts in light of current security challenges, such as Russia’s actions in Ukraine and increasing competition with China.
Stoltenberg emphasized that meeting the 2 percent of GDP defense spending target set by NATO should be considered a baseline rather than a limit. He called on European leaders to increase their commitments, take on more responsibility, and invest further in defense to bolster the alliance.
Stoltenberg also highlighted the importance of European nations supporting Trump’s initiatives to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. He called for collaboration with the incoming administration to achieve a negotiated settlement that supports Ukraine’s interests without rewarding aggression.
As Trump returns to power, Stoltenberg urged NATO allies to demonstrate their value by assisting the United States strategically, including in the Indo-Pacific region. He emphasized the significance of proving themselves as reliable partners and contributing meaningfully to the transatlantic relationship amidst the challenges of great-power competition.
Overall, Stoltenberg’s message underscores the need for European nations to step up their defense efforts and work closely with the new U.S. administration to ensure the continued strength and effectiveness of the transatlantic alliance.
