US airstrikes on Iran and Trump’s criticism of NATO allies overshadow the alliance’s summit, raising concerns over unity and defense commitments.
The NATO summit in Ankara faced heightened tensions after the US resumed airstrikes on Iran overnight, disrupting an uneasy cease-fire. The move exacerbated divisions within the alliance, with US President Donald Trump publicly rebuking European members for insufficient support and questioning their loyalty to the bloc.
Trump’s remarks, delivered alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, targeted European nations for delaying or blocking US aircraft from using continental bases. The criticism follows earlier disputes over defense spending and burden-sharing, which have long strained transatlantic relations.
The escalation in Middle East hostilities and internal discord overshadowed the summit’s agenda, which aimed to project unity in support of Ukraine. Markets remain watchful for potential spillover effects on defense stocks and energy prices.