Russia and Putin · 2024 campaign · № 79
Said he would 'encourage' Russia to do 'whatever the hell they want' to NATO allies that do not pay
“One of the presidents of a big country stood up, said, "Well, sir, if we don't pay and we're attacked by Russia, will you protect us?" I said, "You didn't pay. You're delinquent?" He said, "Yes, let's say that happened." "No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want.”
- Said
- , Campaign rally, Conway, South Carolina
- Subject
- 'Whatever the hell they want'
- Type
- NATO and allies
- Topic
- Foreign policy
- Era
- 2024 campaign
What happened
Recounting a conversation with an unnamed NATO leader, Trump told the Conway rally that he would not protect an ally that was 'delinquent' and would 'encourage' Russia to do 'whatever the hell they want.' NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said the next day that 'any suggestion that allies will not defend each other undermines all of our security, including that of the U.S., and puts American and European soldiers at increased risk.' President Biden called the remarks 'appalling and dangerous' and said Trump intended 'to give Putin a green light for more war and violence.' NATO members do not owe dues; the 2 percent of GDP guideline refers to each country's own defense spending. Trump senior adviser Jason Miller said Trump would more effectively force allies to spend more. Trump posted on February 12 that 'I MADE NATO STRONG' and that allies 'are at it again.'
Sources
- Speech: Donald Trump Holds a Political Rally in Conway, South Carolina - February 10, 2024
- NATO secretary-general says Trump puts allies at risk by encouraging Russian aggression
- Fact-checking Trump's comments urging Russia to invade 'delinquent' NATO members
- Donald J. Trump Truth Social post, February 12, 2024