NATO allies should threaten Trump with “divorce,” making it clear that if he were to leave the alliance, he would lose access to 31 bases around the world, says Michael Yakovleff, former French general.
Showing posts with label NATO. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NATO. Show all posts
Sunday, April 05, 2026
NATO Allies Should Threaten Trump with ‘Divorce’ Says Retired General
Apr 5, 2026 | “I think the Europeans…and Canada should gang up one day and say, we’ve talked to the lawyers about the divorce.”
NATO allies should threaten Trump with “divorce,” making it clear that if he were to leave the alliance, he would lose access to 31 bases around the world, says Michael Yakovleff, former French general.
NATO allies should threaten Trump with “divorce,” making it clear that if he were to leave the alliance, he would lose access to 31 bases around the world, says Michael Yakovleff, former French general.
Thursday, April 02, 2026
Trump Increasingly Desperate over Iran War Failures, Threatens NATO Alliance with Withdrawal
ANTHONY DAVIS can be supported on Patreon here.
Friday, March 20, 2026
Trump Decries Nato Allies as ‘Cowards’ as Strait of Hormuz Impasse Goes On
THE GUARDIAN: Comments come amid reports US is preparing to send three more warships and thousands more troops to Middle East
Donald Trump has called Nato allies “cowards” for not wanting to “help open” the strait of Hormuz, with the US reportedly preparing to send three more warships and thousands more troops to the Middle East amid fears about the economic damage being caused by the war on Iran.
The US is reportedly considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s strategically crucial Kharg Island to pressure Tehran to reopen the strait.
The reports from US media organisations emerged as Iran’s military threatened it would “hunt down” officials and military commanders from the United States and Israel wherever it could find them in the world including at world tourist destinations.
“We are watching your cowardly officials and commanders, pilots and wicked soldiers,” the Iranian armed forces spokesperson Abolfazl Shekarchi said, quoted by state TV. “From now on, based on the information we have on you, the promenades, resorts and tourist and entertainment centres in the world will not be safe.”
The reports that Washington is considering plans to occupy or blockade Kharg Island come despite earlier suggestions by Trump that he was not leaning towards putting “boots on the ground”. » | Peter Beaumont | Senior international correspondent | Friday, March 20, 2026
The draft dodger must be about the most hated man on the planet! In this war, he’s up over his head. He is the cause of misery and suffering on an epic scale, but he seems neither to know it nor to understand the screw-up he has made. In any case, he is utterly insouciant about it all, expecting others to help him clean up the mess he himself has created. Surprisingly, he doesn’t seem to realize that he has brought the world to the brink of catastrophe. A deep depression and even a world war could well ensue from his reckless military excursions into the unknown. — © Mark Alexander
Donald Trump has called Nato allies “cowards” for not wanting to “help open” the strait of Hormuz, with the US reportedly preparing to send three more warships and thousands more troops to the Middle East amid fears about the economic damage being caused by the war on Iran.
The US is reportedly considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s strategically crucial Kharg Island to pressure Tehran to reopen the strait.
The reports from US media organisations emerged as Iran’s military threatened it would “hunt down” officials and military commanders from the United States and Israel wherever it could find them in the world including at world tourist destinations.
“We are watching your cowardly officials and commanders, pilots and wicked soldiers,” the Iranian armed forces spokesperson Abolfazl Shekarchi said, quoted by state TV. “From now on, based on the information we have on you, the promenades, resorts and tourist and entertainment centres in the world will not be safe.”
The reports that Washington is considering plans to occupy or blockade Kharg Island come despite earlier suggestions by Trump that he was not leaning towards putting “boots on the ground”. » | Peter Beaumont | Senior international correspondent | Friday, March 20, 2026
The draft dodger must be about the most hated man on the planet! In this war, he’s up over his head. He is the cause of misery and suffering on an epic scale, but he seems neither to know it nor to understand the screw-up he has made. In any case, he is utterly insouciant about it all, expecting others to help him clean up the mess he himself has created. Surprisingly, he doesn’t seem to realize that he has brought the world to the brink of catastrophe. A deep depression and even a world war could well ensue from his reckless military excursions into the unknown. — © Mark Alexander
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Monday, March 16, 2026
U.S. Allies Rebuff Trump’s Appeal for Help in Strait of Hormuz
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Germany and other nations rejected President Trump’s call for warships to reopen the vital oil route. The Israeli military escalated ground attacks against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump is expected to speak soon.
American allies around the world have responded coolly to — or outright rebuffed — President Trump’s call to send warships to escort merchant vessels in and out of the Persian Gulf, illustrating the consequences of his dismissive approach to global alliances.
The sharpest refusal came Monday from Germany, whose defense minister, Boris Pistorius, said, “This is not our war; we did not start it.” Top officials of Japan, Italy and Australia said Monday that their countries would not participate in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Others were noncommittal, including France, South Korea and Britain, whose prime minister, Keir Starmer, said his country would not be “drawn into wider war.”
Mr. Trump’s call on social media on Saturday for other nations to join the United States in an escort effort came just a week ago, he turned down Mr. Starmer’s offer to send two British aircraft carriers to the region. “We don’t need people that join Wars after we’ve already won!” Mr. Trump said at the time.
As Iran blockades most traffic through the oil shipping choke point, Mr. Trump’s appeal was the first time he had sounded eager to build a broad coalition against Iran. But he was asking for backup from allies who were not consulted ahead of the U.S.-Israeli decision to go to war, and who were derided by Mr. Trump in the past.
The American-Israeli air war against Iran, now in its third week, has killed more than 2,000 people, mostly in Iran and Lebanon, and has drawn in much of the Middle East, as Iran has launched rockets and drones at neighboring countries and at ships in the Gulf. Global energy prices have skyrocketed with tanker traffic all but stopped through the Strait of Hormuz, a conduit for around a fifth of the world’s oil shipments. The price of Brent crude, the global benchmark for oil, briefly reached $106 on Monday.
The United States appears to have been unprepared for the extent of that retaliation and the need to escort ships through the strait — something that administration officials have discussed publicly since the first week of the war, but has not yet begun.
Mr. Trump said NATO member nations should help, and told The Financial Times on Sunday, “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO.” He called on China to send naval escorts, too, but Beijing has little incentive to cooperate; Iran, which sells oil to China, is letting its ships pass safely. Mr. Trump has threatened to postpone a planned summit meeting with Xi Jinping, China’s leader, as he focuses on the war. Iran War Live Updates » | David E. Sanger, Christopher F. Schuetze, Megan Specia and Aaron Boxerman | Monday, March 16, 2026
Goldilocks started this war, so let Goldilocks finish it! — © Mark Alexander
American allies around the world have responded coolly to — or outright rebuffed — President Trump’s call to send warships to escort merchant vessels in and out of the Persian Gulf, illustrating the consequences of his dismissive approach to global alliances.
The sharpest refusal came Monday from Germany, whose defense minister, Boris Pistorius, said, “This is not our war; we did not start it.” Top officials of Japan, Italy and Australia said Monday that their countries would not participate in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Others were noncommittal, including France, South Korea and Britain, whose prime minister, Keir Starmer, said his country would not be “drawn into wider war.”
Mr. Trump’s call on social media on Saturday for other nations to join the United States in an escort effort came just a week ago, he turned down Mr. Starmer’s offer to send two British aircraft carriers to the region. “We don’t need people that join Wars after we’ve already won!” Mr. Trump said at the time.
As Iran blockades most traffic through the oil shipping choke point, Mr. Trump’s appeal was the first time he had sounded eager to build a broad coalition against Iran. But he was asking for backup from allies who were not consulted ahead of the U.S.-Israeli decision to go to war, and who were derided by Mr. Trump in the past.
The American-Israeli air war against Iran, now in its third week, has killed more than 2,000 people, mostly in Iran and Lebanon, and has drawn in much of the Middle East, as Iran has launched rockets and drones at neighboring countries and at ships in the Gulf. Global energy prices have skyrocketed with tanker traffic all but stopped through the Strait of Hormuz, a conduit for around a fifth of the world’s oil shipments. The price of Brent crude, the global benchmark for oil, briefly reached $106 on Monday.
The United States appears to have been unprepared for the extent of that retaliation and the need to escort ships through the strait — something that administration officials have discussed publicly since the first week of the war, but has not yet begun.
Mr. Trump said NATO member nations should help, and told The Financial Times on Sunday, “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO.” He called on China to send naval escorts, too, but Beijing has little incentive to cooperate; Iran, which sells oil to China, is letting its ships pass safely. Mr. Trump has threatened to postpone a planned summit meeting with Xi Jinping, China’s leader, as he focuses on the war. Iran War Live Updates » | David E. Sanger, Christopher F. Schuetze, Megan Specia and Aaron Boxerman | Monday, March 16, 2026
Goldilocks started this war, so let Goldilocks finish it! — © Mark Alexander
Trump Warns NATO over Securing the Strait of Hormuz | BBC News
Mar 16, 2026 | US President Donald Trump has said it would be "very bad for the future of NATO" if allies don't help secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipping.
In an interview with the Financial Times, the US president said he expects China to help unblock the strait and could delay a summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping if it doesn’t.
Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport said it had to temporarily suspend flights after an Iranian drone struck nearby.
Israel said it has begun "limited and targeted ground operations" against Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Trump is up over his neck in it! He and his chum have so obviously bitten off more than they can chew. First, Trump screwed up the American economy; now, with this illegal war on Iran, he is busy screwing up the world economy, too. — © Mark Alexander
In an interview with the Financial Times, the US president said he expects China to help unblock the strait and could delay a summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping if it doesn’t.
Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport said it had to temporarily suspend flights after an Iranian drone struck nearby.
Israel said it has begun "limited and targeted ground operations" against Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Trump is up over his neck in it! He and his chum have so obviously bitten off more than they can chew. First, Trump screwed up the American economy; now, with this illegal war on Iran, he is busy screwing up the world economy, too. — © Mark Alexander
Monday, February 23, 2026
Ben Hodges: Europe Has the Power — But Not the Political Will | DW News
Feb 20, 2026 | Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the war is far from over — and its outcome remains uncertain.
DW’s Washington Bureau Chief sits down with retired U.S. General Ben Hodges for a blunt conversation about what went wrong and what comes next. Hodges criticizes U.S. leadership for lacking a clear objective, calls Trump’s negotiation strategy “doomed from the start,” and explains how NATO emerged stronger with the addition of Sweden and Finland.
He also delivers a stark message to Europe: the power to stop Russia exists — but the political will does not.
DW’s Washington Bureau Chief sits down with retired U.S. General Ben Hodges for a blunt conversation about what went wrong and what comes next. Hodges criticizes U.S. leadership for lacking a clear objective, calls Trump’s negotiation strategy “doomed from the start,” and explains how NATO emerged stronger with the addition of Sweden and Finland.
He also delivers a stark message to Europe: the power to stop Russia exists — but the political will does not.
Friday, January 30, 2026
Will Trump Trigger a New World War? | Max Hastings
Jan 30, 2026 | The legendary historian Max Hastings on NATO, China, democracy — and whether today’s world resembles 1914.
In this episode of Switzerland, Tom Switzer is joined by Sir Max Hastings — one of Britain’s most distinguished military historians, journalists, and former newspaper editors — for a wide-ranging conversation about war, power, and the fate of the Western order. They explore whether today’s fractured international system bears dangerous similarities to 1914, the impact of Donald Trump on U.S. foreign policy, Europe’s strategic vulnerability, NATO’s future, the rise of authoritarianism, and the challenges posed by Russia and China. Drawing on decades of scholarship and reportage, Hastings reflects on nationalism, Brexit, technology’s growing political power, and the enduring strengths — and vulnerabilities — of democratic societies in an age of renewed great-power rivalry.
In this episode of Switzerland, Tom Switzer is joined by Sir Max Hastings — one of Britain’s most distinguished military historians, journalists, and former newspaper editors — for a wide-ranging conversation about war, power, and the fate of the Western order. They explore whether today’s fractured international system bears dangerous similarities to 1914, the impact of Donald Trump on U.S. foreign policy, Europe’s strategic vulnerability, NATO’s future, the rise of authoritarianism, and the challenges posed by Russia and China. Drawing on decades of scholarship and reportage, Hastings reflects on nationalism, Brexit, technology’s growing political power, and the enduring strengths — and vulnerabilities — of democratic societies in an age of renewed great-power rivalry.
Monday, January 26, 2026
Nato Chief Rutte: ‘Keep on Dreaming’ If You Think Europe Could Defend Itself without US
THE GUARDIAN: Mark Rutte said Europe would need to spend ‘billions and billions of euros’ on defence
Rutte also tells EU lawmakers that if they think the EU or Europe as whole can defend itself without the US, they should “keep on dreaming”.
He says Europe’s defence spending would then have to go massively up to 10%, with further need to buy own nuclear capability and spend “billions and billions of euros.”
He also says Europe needs the US and similarly the US needs Nato.
He adds that even as US priorities evolve, there will “always be a very strong conventional US presence in Europe.” » | Europe live with Jakub Krupa | Monday, January 26, 2026
How weak! How feeble! Such a defeatist attitude!
So, Mark Rutte believes that Europeans—naturally, I include Britons in this group—must rely on the mood swings of a fascist, on the vicissitudes of BIG “DADDY”, on the mercurial nature of the orange god across the Pond.
Of course, Europe is not currently in any position to defend the Continent effectively. But with WILL and DETERMINATION and GOOD, SOUND LEADERSHIP, and a STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY, that can all change. However, with Mark Rutte’s defeatist attitude, it will not change. Things will stay the same.
If you don’t believe me, just think of what Winston Churchill achieved when war broke out in 1939. At the time, the United Kingdom‘s finances were in a relatively weak and precarious position. But Winston Churchill refused to let that dampen his determination to defend the nation. At the time, the UK fought without the USA. The USA didn’t enter the war until December 1941. But the UK fought on with courage and determination. And so it must be for Europe in times of danger and war.
Recent political developments and events have shown us Europeans that WE MUST start fending for ourselves. WE MUST NOT CONTINUE to allow others to determine our future or destiny. Nor can we allow European soil to be seized by other nations. Our European identity, unity and cohesion, prosperity, and future depend on it. We cannot afford not to be able to fend for ourselves. If we cannot learn to defend ourselves, European nations will end up as vassal states. And that, of course, is both objectionable and unacceptable.
Europe’s military strength depends on us Europeans: Europeans’ determination; Europeans’ well-trained, well-financed militaries; and Europeans’ willingness to work together as ONE, as a FAMILY OF NATIONS. Each nation will have to work for the GOOD OF ALL.
The best way forward will be achieved when there is a central military command. And to use an apt Arab saying. It is as follows: One hand cannot clap. (يد واحدة لا تصفق). This means that teamwork is essential.
We Europeans must put aside our differences and co-operate. Our future depends on it. It is the ONLY WAY FORWARD. — © Mark Alexander
Rutte also tells EU lawmakers that if they think the EU or Europe as whole can defend itself without the US, they should “keep on dreaming”.
He says Europe’s defence spending would then have to go massively up to 10%, with further need to buy own nuclear capability and spend “billions and billions of euros.”
He also says Europe needs the US and similarly the US needs Nato.
He adds that even as US priorities evolve, there will “always be a very strong conventional US presence in Europe.” » | Europe live with Jakub Krupa | Monday, January 26, 2026
How weak! How feeble! Such a defeatist attitude!
So, Mark Rutte believes that Europeans—naturally, I include Britons in this group—must rely on the mood swings of a fascist, on the vicissitudes of BIG “DADDY”, on the mercurial nature of the orange god across the Pond.
Of course, Europe is not currently in any position to defend the Continent effectively. But with WILL and DETERMINATION and GOOD, SOUND LEADERSHIP, and a STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY, that can all change. However, with Mark Rutte’s defeatist attitude, it will not change. Things will stay the same.
If you don’t believe me, just think of what Winston Churchill achieved when war broke out in 1939. At the time, the United Kingdom‘s finances were in a relatively weak and precarious position. But Winston Churchill refused to let that dampen his determination to defend the nation. At the time, the UK fought without the USA. The USA didn’t enter the war until December 1941. But the UK fought on with courage and determination. And so it must be for Europe in times of danger and war.
Recent political developments and events have shown us Europeans that WE MUST start fending for ourselves. WE MUST NOT CONTINUE to allow others to determine our future or destiny. Nor can we allow European soil to be seized by other nations. Our European identity, unity and cohesion, prosperity, and future depend on it. We cannot afford not to be able to fend for ourselves. If we cannot learn to defend ourselves, European nations will end up as vassal states. And that, of course, is both objectionable and unacceptable.
Europe’s military strength depends on us Europeans: Europeans’ determination; Europeans’ well-trained, well-financed militaries; and Europeans’ willingness to work together as ONE, as a FAMILY OF NATIONS. Each nation will have to work for the GOOD OF ALL.
The best way forward will be achieved when there is a central military command. And to use an apt Arab saying. It is as follows: One hand cannot clap. (يد واحدة لا تصفق). This means that teamwork is essential.
We Europeans must put aside our differences and co-operate. Our future depends on it. It is the ONLY WAY FORWARD. — © Mark Alexander
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Why Trump Is ‘Trying to Break NATO’ | Lincoln Project Co-Founder Rick Wilson
Jan 21, 2026 | “He understands he can’t leave Nato…but he could break it.”
Trump wants to “destroy NATO” because he believes the UK and Europe are in the “rear view mirror” of America, says political strategist and co-founder of The Lincoln Project, Rick Wilson.
Trump wants to “destroy NATO” because he believes the UK and Europe are in the “rear view mirror” of America, says political strategist and co-founder of The Lincoln Project, Rick Wilson.
Saturday, January 24, 2026
Despite Trump’s Words, China and Russia Are Not Threatening Greenland
THE NEW YORK TIMES: U.S. and European officials say they are unaware of any intelligence that shows China and Russia are endangering the island, which is protected by the NATO security umbrella.
Fourteen years ago, a Chinese icebreaker called the Snow Dragon made a long and surprising voyage.
Over three months in the summer, the scientific research vessel crossed from the Pacific to the Atlantic, traversing nearly 5,400 nautical miles of the Arctic Ocean, a first for China. The crew discovered that melting ice meant the ship could travel through the remote region without great difficulty, the expedition leader told reporters after docking in Iceland.
“To our astonishment,” said the leader, Huigen Yang, “most part of the Northern Sea Route is open.”
American and European officials took notice at the time and began keeping a close watch on China’s moves in the Arctic.
But while China has talked about expanding trade and access to shipping lanes and natural resources in the Arctic, it has developed only a small footprint there over the years. And even as China and Russia compete with the United States in many parts of the world, they do not present a threat to American interests in or near Greenland, say experts on those two superpowers and current and former U.S. officials, including intelligence analysts.
Those findings contrast sharply with assertions by President Trump, who has repeatedly cited security as the reason he wants to acquire Greenland. In a speech on Wednesday at an annual forum in Davos, Switzerland, he said Greenland was an “enormous, unsecured island” that was a “core national security interest of the United States of America.” » | Edward Wong | Edward Wong reports from Washington on U.S. foreign policy and is a former Beijing bureau chief for The Times who has a written a book about China. | Saturday, January 24, 2026
Does anyone really believe the poppycock that Greenland’s security is momentarily endangered by Russia or China?
Trump wants Greenland for ONE main reason, and for one MAIN reason only: He wants to ENRICH HIMSELF and PROFIT. That’s all he ever seems to want to do anyway. I don’t believe that Trump is working for the good of the American people; rather, I believe he is working for the good of himself, his family, and his cronies. Where there is money involved, he’s there! Trump is not far away.
Trump is a climate change denier. But, ironically, it is because of climate change that so many treasures are going to be made available for mining/ The more the earth warms, the greater the treasures made available for exploitation: rare earths, gold, minerals, and significant oil and gas reserves, and much else besides, yet unknown. It’s a treasure trove that would benefit Trump, the usurper. That’s why he wants Greenland, and for little else. Had it not been for climate change, I doubt that Trump would even have uttered the word Greenland!
Fact is, a known crook has been re-elected to the White House, and that crook is using his presidency as a cash cow. That’s the long and the short of it. However, he must not be allowed to have ANY sovereignty over Greenland. Greenland and its vast riches belong to the Greenlanders and the Danes and to nobody else. — © Mark Alexander
Fourteen years ago, a Chinese icebreaker called the Snow Dragon made a long and surprising voyage.
Over three months in the summer, the scientific research vessel crossed from the Pacific to the Atlantic, traversing nearly 5,400 nautical miles of the Arctic Ocean, a first for China. The crew discovered that melting ice meant the ship could travel through the remote region without great difficulty, the expedition leader told reporters after docking in Iceland.
“To our astonishment,” said the leader, Huigen Yang, “most part of the Northern Sea Route is open.”
American and European officials took notice at the time and began keeping a close watch on China’s moves in the Arctic.
But while China has talked about expanding trade and access to shipping lanes and natural resources in the Arctic, it has developed only a small footprint there over the years. And even as China and Russia compete with the United States in many parts of the world, they do not present a threat to American interests in or near Greenland, say experts on those two superpowers and current and former U.S. officials, including intelligence analysts.
Those findings contrast sharply with assertions by President Trump, who has repeatedly cited security as the reason he wants to acquire Greenland. In a speech on Wednesday at an annual forum in Davos, Switzerland, he said Greenland was an “enormous, unsecured island” that was a “core national security interest of the United States of America.” » | Edward Wong | Edward Wong reports from Washington on U.S. foreign policy and is a former Beijing bureau chief for The Times who has a written a book about China. | Saturday, January 24, 2026
Does anyone really believe the poppycock that Greenland’s security is momentarily endangered by Russia or China?
Trump wants Greenland for ONE main reason, and for one MAIN reason only: He wants to ENRICH HIMSELF and PROFIT. That’s all he ever seems to want to do anyway. I don’t believe that Trump is working for the good of the American people; rather, I believe he is working for the good of himself, his family, and his cronies. Where there is money involved, he’s there! Trump is not far away.
Trump is a climate change denier. But, ironically, it is because of climate change that so many treasures are going to be made available for mining/ The more the earth warms, the greater the treasures made available for exploitation: rare earths, gold, minerals, and significant oil and gas reserves, and much else besides, yet unknown. It’s a treasure trove that would benefit Trump, the usurper. That’s why he wants Greenland, and for little else. Had it not been for climate change, I doubt that Trump would even have uttered the word Greenland!
Fact is, a known crook has been re-elected to the White House, and that crook is using his presidency as a cash cow. That’s the long and the short of it. However, he must not be allowed to have ANY sovereignty over Greenland. Greenland and its vast riches belong to the Greenlanders and the Danes and to nobody else. — © Mark Alexander
Friday, January 23, 2026
Trump-Aussage über Nato-Truppen in Afghanistan löst Empörung in Großbritannien aus
BERLINER ZEITUNG: Der US-Präsident behauptet, die Verbündeten hätten sich von der Frontlinie in Afghanistan ferngehalten. Britische Politiker und Veteranen widersprechen scharf.
US-Präsident Donald Trump hat mit Äußerungen über den Einsatz von Nato-Truppen in Afghanistan heftige Kritik aus Großbritannien auf sich gezogen. In einem Interview mit Fox News erklärte Trump, er sei sich nicht sicher, ob das Militärbündnis die USA unterstützen würde, falls diese jemals Hilfe benötigten. Die Nato-Partner hätten zwar Truppen nach Afghanistan geschickt, diese seien jedoch „etwas zurückgeblieben, etwas abseits der Frontlinien“ gewesen.
Der britische Streitkräfteminister Al Carns, selbst Afghanistan-Veteran, bezeichnete die Aussagen als „völlig lächerlich“. Die Welt habe sich nach den Anschlägen vom 11. September 2001 hinter die USA gestellt, erklärte er in einem auf X veröffentlichten Video. Oppositionsführerin Kemi Badenoch von den Konservativen nannte Trumps Behauptung „kompletten Unsinn“. Britische, kanadische und Nato-Truppen hätten 20 Jahre lang an der Seite der USA gekämpft und seien gefallen. » | Sophie Barkey | Freitag, 23. Januar 2026
US-Präsident Donald Trump hat mit Äußerungen über den Einsatz von Nato-Truppen in Afghanistan heftige Kritik aus Großbritannien auf sich gezogen. In einem Interview mit Fox News erklärte Trump, er sei sich nicht sicher, ob das Militärbündnis die USA unterstützen würde, falls diese jemals Hilfe benötigten. Die Nato-Partner hätten zwar Truppen nach Afghanistan geschickt, diese seien jedoch „etwas zurückgeblieben, etwas abseits der Frontlinien“ gewesen.
Der britische Streitkräfteminister Al Carns, selbst Afghanistan-Veteran, bezeichnete die Aussagen als „völlig lächerlich“. Die Welt habe sich nach den Anschlägen vom 11. September 2001 hinter die USA gestellt, erklärte er in einem auf X veröffentlichten Video. Oppositionsführerin Kemi Badenoch von den Konservativen nannte Trumps Behauptung „kompletten Unsinn“. Britische, kanadische und Nato-Truppen hätten 20 Jahre lang an der Seite der USA gekämpft und seien gefallen. » | Sophie Barkey | Freitag, 23. Januar 2026
Politicians React as Trump Claims NATO Troops Avoided Front Lines | BBC Question Time
Jan 23, 2026 | Following a tense week for European nations over Donald Trump’s threats to Greenland, fresh outrage has been sparked as the US President claimed NATO troops avoided Afghanistan's front line.
Trump told Fox News on Thursday: "They'll say they sent some troops to Afghanistan... and they did, they stayed a little back, a little off the front lines.”
The UK was among several allies to join the US in Afghanistan from 2001, and a total of 457 British service personnel were killed in the conflict.
Trump told Fox News on Thursday: "They'll say they sent some troops to Afghanistan... and they did, they stayed a little back, a little off the front lines.”
The UK was among several allies to join the US in Afghanistan from 2001, and a total of 457 British service personnel were killed in the conflict.
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Trump Rules Out Force in Greenland But Takes Swipe at NATO Allies
Jan 21, 2026 | After weeks of threats Donald Trump delivered another climbdown. If he wanted to use force to grab Greenland, the President of the United States said, in a speech today at Davos, he'd be "unstoppable". But he wants instead to "acquire it". Though he isn't exactly asking nicely.
Describing Greenland as a "big block of ice" - at times confusing it with Iceland - he warned Denmark, "you can say no, but we will remember." In a long and meandering speech, constant reminders to the NATO allies too - including the UK - that without the US, they were nothing.
The crisis created, not yet fully passed. Trump used his platform at Davos to take a series of swipes at Europe and Canada, complaining that they weren't being grateful enough to the United States.
In a speech lasting more than an hour he decried green energy policies and claimed that the people of Europe were "destroying themselves". But there was some relief at least that Mr Trump ruled out the idea of using "excessive force" to seize Greenland.
Can the fractures splintering through the old world order be fixed?
Describing Greenland as a "big block of ice" - at times confusing it with Iceland - he warned Denmark, "you can say no, but we will remember." In a long and meandering speech, constant reminders to the NATO allies too - including the UK - that without the US, they were nothing.
The crisis created, not yet fully passed. Trump used his platform at Davos to take a series of swipes at Europe and Canada, complaining that they weren't being grateful enough to the United States.
In a speech lasting more than an hour he decried green energy policies and claimed that the people of Europe were "destroying themselves". But there was some relief at least that Mr Trump ruled out the idea of using "excessive force" to seize Greenland.
Can the fractures splintering through the old world order be fixed?
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Donald Trump Says ‘No Going Back’ on Greenland Takeover Plan | BBC News
Jan 20, 2026 | US President Donald Trump has said he will tell European leaders "we have to have" Greenland at this week's forum in Davos, Switzerland.
On social media, Trump shared a message apparently from Emmanuel Macron, in which the French president says: "I do not understand what you are doing on Greenland.”
He also shared a message he said was from NATO's secretary general and posted generated images of himself placing an American flag on Greenland.
Greenland's prime minister said "we will not let ourselves be pressured", as European allies have rallied to defend the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Meanwhile Trump has also said the UK's plan to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is an "an act of GREAT STUPIDITY". His administration has previously backed the deal. The UK said it has to hand over the islands because the military base is under threat "after court decisions undermined our position".
On social media, Trump shared a message apparently from Emmanuel Macron, in which the French president says: "I do not understand what you are doing on Greenland.”
He also shared a message he said was from NATO's secretary general and posted generated images of himself placing an American flag on Greenland.
Greenland's prime minister said "we will not let ourselves be pressured", as European allies have rallied to defend the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Meanwhile Trump has also said the UK's plan to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is an "an act of GREAT STUPIDITY". His administration has previously backed the deal. The UK said it has to hand over the islands because the military base is under threat "after court decisions undermined our position".
'Trump Is a Real Threat to World Peace' - Former NATO Chief
Jan 20, 2026 | Former NATO Secretary General and ex-Danish Prime Minister Anders Rasmussen has delivered a stark warning over Donald Trump’s threats towards Greenland, saying an attack on the Danish territory would spell the end of NATO and fundamentally undermine the Western alliance.
Speaking to Channel 4 News, Rasmussen has dismissed claims that Denmark has failed to defend Greenland, arguing that the United States already has the right to deploy troops and bases there under a long-standing defence agreement - one it has chosen not to fully use. He warns that Trump’s rhetoric risks eroding the transatlantic relationship and could destabilise the global order.
America is no longer really the leader of the free world. To start with, America is itself no longer free: on the contrary, it is well on its way to autocracy; so how can it be the leader of the free world? Secondly, the free world cannot be led by such a mentally imbalanced man as Trump. The man clearly has mental health issues. I am no medical doctor, but one doesn’t have to be: Trump’s actions and pronouncements SCREAM mental health problems! This geriatric truly has lost the plot. — © Mark Alexander
Speaking to Channel 4 News, Rasmussen has dismissed claims that Denmark has failed to defend Greenland, arguing that the United States already has the right to deploy troops and bases there under a long-standing defence agreement - one it has chosen not to fully use. He warns that Trump’s rhetoric risks eroding the transatlantic relationship and could destabilise the global order.
America is no longer really the leader of the free world. To start with, America is itself no longer free: on the contrary, it is well on its way to autocracy; so how can it be the leader of the free world? Secondly, the free world cannot be led by such a mentally imbalanced man as Trump. The man clearly has mental health issues. I am no medical doctor, but one doesn’t have to be: Trump’s actions and pronouncements SCREAM mental health problems! This geriatric truly has lost the plot. — © Mark Alexander
Monday, January 19, 2026
Put European and Canadian Troops in Greenland to Deter US | Richard Shirreff
Jan 19, 2026 | "It's absolutely the future of NATO.”
Former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Sir Richard Shirreff tells Times Radio Europe and Canada should "call the bluff" and put troops into Greenland to deter "any aggression, whether Russian, Chinese, or indeed, American".
Former NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Sir Richard Shirreff tells Times Radio Europe and Canada should "call the bluff" and put troops into Greenland to deter "any aggression, whether Russian, Chinese, or indeed, American".
EU Can Weaponise Tech and Energy to 'Damage' America in Tariff Backlash | Oliver Moody
Jan 19, 2026 | “Europe can do a lot of damage to America, particularly in terms of financial services, tech, energy, arms exports.”
The question Europe will have to answer is how much hurt are they willing to shoulder in an attempt to deter Trump from further Greenland action, says The Times’s Oliver Moody.
The question Europe will have to answer is how much hurt are they willing to shoulder in an attempt to deter Trump from further Greenland action, says The Times’s Oliver Moody.
Friday, January 16, 2026
Troops and Vessels from European NATO Allies Arrive in Greenland | BBC News
Jan 16, 2026 | Troops and ships from several European states are gathering in Greenland. The limited deployment involves Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands and the UK.
US President Donald Trump says the US needs to "own" Greenland to prevent Russia and China from doing so. Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, said this week that the territory was in the midst of a geopolitical crisis, and that if his people were asked to make a choice they would choose Denmark over the US.
US President Donald Trump says the US needs to "own" Greenland to prevent Russia and China from doing so. Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, said this week that the territory was in the midst of a geopolitical crisis, and that if his people were asked to make a choice they would choose Denmark over the US.
US vs Europe: How Greenland Became a NATO Crisis as Trump Threatens Tariffs for Non-compliance.
ANTHONY DAVIS can be supported on Patreon here.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)