Story perspectives

Trump's NATO Withdrawal: A Risky Shift in Leadership

2/13/2026

Left

Trump Redefines NATO

U.S. President Donald Trump reshapes NATO by reducing the U.S. leadership role within the alliance.
Defense expert Sara Bjerg Moller notes the United States is "quiet quitting," stepping back from command positions and reducing personnel.
Some NATO leaders acknowledge the reduction but worry about Trump's unpredictable behavior and its security impact.
Moller warns this disengagement could weaken the United States and end a century of productive partnership with Europe.

Right

Trump Presses NATO

U.S. President Donald Trump has pressed NATO allies to boost defense spending, and a Harvard report says this pressure may embolden Russia to exploit divisions.
Russian drone incursions and cyberattacks have intensified, targeting Eastern European nations.
Experts warn Russia's strategic goal is to fracture NATO, potentially leading to military incursions.
There are concerns about possible coordination between Russia and China against U.S. interests, complicating America's defense strategy.

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Trump Redefines NATO

U.S. President Donald Trump reshapes NATO by reducing the U.S. leadership role within the alliance.
Defense expert Sara Bjerg Moller notes the United States is "quiet quitting," stepping back from command positions and reducing personnel.
Some NATO leaders acknowledge the reduction but worry about Trump's unpredictable behavior and its security impact.
Moller warns this disengagement could weaken the United States and end a century of productive partnership with Europe.

1 / 2