As the NATO leaders' summit is about to be held, President of the United States Trump's ambiguous remarks on the collective defense clause of NATO may once again make European allies "nervous".

According to media reports from Associated Press and Politico, on June 24 local time, Trump took Air Force One to The Hague, Netherlands to attend the NATO summit. On the plane, a reporter asked whether the United States still adhered to the commitment of mutual defense between allies stipulated by NATO's Article Five. However, Trump said, "It depends on your definition. There are many definitions of Article Five. You know, right? But I am committed to being friends with them."

When reporters asked again, Trump still refused to give a clear answer. He said, "I am committed to saving lives. I am committed to life and security. I will give you an exact definition when I get there (referring to the summit)."

Local time June 24, 2025, Schiphol, Netherlands, US President Trump arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport by "Air Force One" IC photo

According to Article Five of the North Atlantic Treaty, NATO member states must regard an attack on one member state as an attack on all member states. Associated Press pointed out that Trump's uncertain statements on the core provisions of NATO may rekindle concerns among European allies about the reliability of their military alliance.

Subsequently, NATO Secretary General Rutte responded to Trump's comments, stating that he had no doubt about the United States' commitment to NATO and its Article Five. Notably, Trump earlier on June 24 publicly shared a screenshot of a message sent by Rutte on his personal social media account. In the message, Rutte praised him for his decisive actions on the Iran issue and promised a "major success" at the Hague summit.

The message read, "Donald, you have led us to a crucial moment for the United States, Europe, and the world. You will achieve a goal that no U.S. president has ever achieved in decades. Europe will significantly increase spending, which is only natural, and it will also be your victory."

Foreign media pointed out that this "enthusiastic" and even可以说 flattery message indicates the efforts made by Rutte to ensure the success of the summit and prevent Trump from abandoning NATO.

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Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7519761003886789129/

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