Trump threatens NATO exit ahead of Rutte talks as Leavitt says 'they turned their backs'

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has sharply criticised NATO allies, accusing them of failing to support the United States during its recent conflict with Iran, and raising the prospect of revisiting Washington’s membership in the alliance.

According to a statement relayed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday, April 8, Trump said NATO members “were tested and failed” when they did not come to the US’s aid during the six-week war.

“It’s quite sad that NATO turned their backs on the American people… when it’s the American people who have been funding their defense,” Leavitt said.

Withdrawal from NATO back on the table

Trump is scheduled to meet Mark Rutte at the White House, with the president expected to hold what Leavitt described as a “very frank and candid conversation.”

The meeting comes at a critical moment for transatlantic relations, with tensions rising over burden-sharing and collective security commitments within the alliance.

The White House confirmed that the possibility of the US withdrawing from NATO could be part of the discussions.

Leavitt said the idea is something Trump has previously considered and is likely to raise again during talks with Rutte. However, any move to exit the alliance would require approval from Congress, making such a step politically challenging.

Trump’s criticism comes even as European leaders have welcomed the recent two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, pledging support for maintaining stability in key global trade routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

The divergence highlights ongoing strains between Washington and its allies over both security priorities and diplomatic approaches.

White House defends tough rhetoric from Trump 

Leavitt also defended Trump’s controversial warning that “a whole civilization” could be destroyed if Iran failed to negotiate, describing it as part of a deliberate strategy to force Tehran to the table.

She argued that the president’s “very tough rhetoric and negotiating style” directly contributed to securing the ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Responding to criticism, Leavitt said Trump’s focus remains on outcomes rather than language, insisting his warnings should be taken seriously.

She further claimed the president holds the “moral high ground” over Iran, and that his forceful stance compelled the Iranian leadership to seek a ceasefire and make concessions.