British Ambassador Discusses NATO and Defense Spending

On CNN’s “The Lead” on Friday, British Ambassador to the U.S. Christian Turner addressed President Donald Trump’s remarks about NATO. He acknowledged that Trump’s call for increased defense spending was justified. “NATO is fundamentally a defense alliance aimed at our collective protection. It’s worth noting that Article 5 has only been invoked once since the events of September 11,” he stated. Turner also mentioned ongoing efforts to take the President’s concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz seriously.

Following the conversation about Trump’s urging for greater defense contributions from Europe, Tapper pointed out, “But he’s also saying NATO is a fragile entity and that the U.S. shouldn’t even be part of it anymore.”

Turner responded by reiterating the importance of NATO as a defense network. “NATO exists for our mutual safety, and the invocation of Article 5 has been incredibly rare post-9/11. It’s essential for leaders like myself, along with European heads of state and figures such as Mark Rutte, to convey our commitment to increase defense expenditures. Today in Paris, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron took significant steps, and once the current lockdown is lifted and an agreement finalized, we hope to ensure safe passage through the strait for ships. There are many countries, 51 to be exact, from South Korea to the Gulf States, committed to this cause, but we will not accept tolls or limitations in this area. After finalizing this deal, we can collaborate effectively with our U.S. partners for a smooth transition.”