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The Telegraph: Angela Merkel and European leaders resist Donald Trump's ultimatum to increase defence spending or risk losing US commitment to Nato
European leaders have pushed back at Donald Trump’s ultimatum that they increase defence spending or risk America scaling back its commitment to Transatlantic protection.
Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, said her country would not accelerate existing, long-term plans to ramp up the military budget by 2024 despite a demand by the US this week that countries increase spending by the end of the year.
The president of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, also said countries must not cave in to US demands.
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WNU Editor: NATO's leaders are taking a lot for granted .... especially on the U.S. continuing to cover its commitments and (of course) its bills to the organisation. Just like much of the Washington establishment/U.S. main stream media/the progressive left/etc. .... I find it astounding that many European leaders are in denial that someone like President Trump is now in power .... and that his budget priorities and foreign policy focus are different from that of Europe's NATO partners.
More News On NATO Leaders Saying No To President Trump's Ultimatum That They Must Increase Defense Spending
EU leaders defiant over US pressure to increase Nato defence budgets -- The Independent
Germany will take own time to boost defense, Merkel tells Pence -- Politico
Germany vows to increase defense budget & meet NATO obligations in long term -- RT
Mike Pence widens US rift with Europe over Nato defence spending -- The Guardian
U.S. steps up pressure on Europe to boost defense spending -- Reuters
Daily chart: Military spending by NATO members -- The Economist
