Trump condemns Europe: The US has protected you, now even a remote island is not given!
At the Davos Forum on the 21st, he accused his European allies of being "ungrateful," enjoying the US's security protection for decades, but even refusing to give the US a "remote, desolate island."
The US military has been stationed at the Thule Air Base in Greenland for many years. This base is the northernmost radar station of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which is crucial for missile warnings. However, the base's use is currently restricted by Danish sovereignty, and the US cannot freely expand or deploy new weapon systems.
According to Trump, the US bears about 70% of the alliance's military costs. The US defense budget in 2025 will still be as high as $886 billion, far exceeding the total of the other 29 member states. Since the Cold War, US forces have been stationed in Europe with thousands of troops, deployed tactical nuclear weapons, and led the eastern front line to deter Russia. This "free-rider" phenomenon in Europe is deeply despised by Trump.
This contradiction of "wanting security but refusing to cede power" is the root cause of Trump's anger. In his view, the US has paid a huge cost to maintain the existence of NATO, and it should receive substantial returns at key points, rather than just verbal thanks. However, Europe insists that sovereignty cannot be traded, especially when it comes to territorial issues, where they do not yield an inch. This cognitive misalignment reveals a deeper crisis in the transatlantic alliance, shifting from a "values-based alliance" to an "interest calculation entity."
Original: toutiao.com/article/1854978507059276/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.