Estonia’s PM: Trump’s NATO Comments Should Urge Allies to Invest in Defense, Says Reuters

BRUSSELS (Reuters) – Recent remarks made by U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump concerning NATO have raised alarms among its member states, particularly those that have not adequately invested in defense, according to Estonia’s Prime Minister Kaja Kallas.

At a joint press conference with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Kallas stated, “I think what the presidential candidate in America said is also something to maybe wake up some of the allies who haven’t done that much.”

Metsola emphasized the need for the European Union to enhance its defense spending. She remarked that the EU must convey a strong message: “irrespective of who will lead the next American administration, we are strong enough to defend each other. Any statements of that nature should be recognized for the danger they pose, but also reflect our commitment to do more.”

Trump had suggested that the United States might reconsider its commitment to protect NATO allies that are not meeting their defense spending obligations amid potential threats like a Russian invasion.