NATO Chief Says Europeans Have 'Gotten Message' from Trump on Defence

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, speaking at the EPC summit in Armenia, claimed Europeans have 'gotten the message' from US President Donald Trump. Rutte noted that Europeans have 'heard' Washington's frustration over its conflict with Iran and are 'stepping up' in defense efforts. The US announced it would withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that Rutte linked to Trump's messaging. The US president accused some NATO countries of not doing enough to support the US-Israel war on Iran. The exact nature of the conflict and the extent of European support remain unclear, with sources noting differing perspectives on the situation. The EPC summit in Armenia provided a platform for these discussions, highlighting the tensions and shifting dynamics in NATO relations. While all sources agree on Rutte's statement and the troop withdrawal, the specifics of the US-Israel war on Iran and the extent of European support remain contested. The event underscores the growing friction within NATO over defense commitments and the role of the US in regional conflicts.