After meeting with NATO’s Mark Rutte, Trump expresses disappointment in Putin and reaffirms support for NATO's collective defense
U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin over the ongoing war in Ukraine, even as he reaffirmed strong support for NATO following a high-level meeting with NATO's newly appointed Secretary-General, Mark Rutte.
Speaking from the Oval Office on Monday, Trump revealed that he believed he had reached an agreement with Putin on Ukraine multiple times, only for Russia to resume aggression. "We had a deal done four times, and then you go home and you see he just attacked a nursing home in Kyiv. What the hell was that all about?" Trump said, clearly frustrated. "I'm disappointed in him, but I'm not done with him."
When asked whether he still trusts the Russian leader, Trump responded bluntly: "I trust almost nobody, to be honest with you."
The meeting with Rutte marked a noticeable shift in Trump’s rhetoric, particularly regarding NATO. Once calling the alliance “obsolete,” Trump now acknowledges its importance, stating, "NATO is now becoming the opposite of obsolete." He praised recent progress on burden-sharing among member countries, noting, “It was very unfair because the United States paid for almost 100% of it, but now they are paying their bills.”
He also signaled alignment with NATO’s core mission, saying, "Yeah, I think collective defense is fine," when asked about Article 5, which ensures mutual defense among members.
Reflecting on his evolving relationships with European leaders, Trump suggested increased mutual respect. “This is not an easy crowd to break into. These are smart people heading up very successful countries—Germany, France, and Spain. But over the years, they’ve gotten to know me. I think they respect me and my decision-making.”
The remarks come at a time of global tension over the Ukraine conflict and increasing scrutiny over Western unity. Trump’s endorsement of NATO and critical stance on Putin may signal a recalibration of his foreign policy outlook ahead of the 2024 U.S. election.
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