NATO’s Rutte Says Europe Has Received Trump’s Message

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed that Europe has “gotten the message” from President Donald Trump, who has promised consequences for what he views as disloyalty from some allies during the ongoing conflict with the Iranian regime.

Rutte, a former Dutch prime minister and a prominent supporter of Trump in Europe since taking over NATO, is in the position of trying to bridge the gaps between European nations and Washington, as reported by Reuters.

Recently, the Pentagon disclosed plans to decrease the U.S. troop presence in Germany by 5,000 over the next six months to a year. Following this announcement, Trump hinted that troop withdrawals might be more significant, although he didn’t provide specific details.

Trump also mentioned the potential relocation of U.S. troops from Spain and Italy after those countries denied access to military bases and airspace amidst the Iran conflict.

While Berlin didn’t outright deny access, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, keen on boosting his domestic popularity, has openly criticized U.S. efforts to challenge Tehran’s regime and its weapons development.

Initially declaring that the Iran conflict was “not our war,” Merz criticized the White House for lacking a clear strategy, stating that Tehran was “humiliating” the United States despite significant military losses.

However, it seems Merz has softened his stance after Trump threatened troop cuts and higher tariffs on European vehicles, which is particularly concerning for Germany’s automotive sector. Merz later affirmed his support for the U.S., declaring that the United States is Germany’s key partner in the North Atlantic Alliance and reaffirming shared goals, particularly regarding preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear arms.

On Monday, Rutte reiterated that European nations heard the White House’s concerns, pointing out some disappointment on the American side but indicating that Europe was listening.

Rutte, who has previously referred to Trump affectionately, noted that many European countries are eager to sign agreements with the U.S. to ensure access to military bases in future conflicts.

He also mentioned that Russia appears ready to play a larger role in efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, preventing Iran from using oil supply chokepoints to its advantage.

Nevertheless, Merz’s assertions and Rutte’s remarks are unlikely to change the Pentagon’s plans to withdraw troops from Germany, a long-stated goal of Trump since his first term.

For years, Trump has criticized Germany for not meeting NATO spending commitments, insisting that the U.S. should handle its own protection, especially against nations like Russia, which Germany has financially supported through oil and gas purchases.

Though Trump had previously suggested a U.S. withdrawal from Germany, his successor, Biden, had reversed that decision.

The potential troop withdrawal could significantly impact Germany, as many jobs—over 10,000 directly and about 70,000 indirectly—are tied to U.S. military bases. Currently, approximately 36,000 U.S. service members are stationed at around 40 sites in Germany.