Person

Matt Whitaker

United States Ambassador to NATO, US Mission to NATO

2 articles · 4 April 2025 to 6 July 2026

What we have reported

Stated that Trump expects all allies to step up immediately and get on the path to 5% defence spending with urgency.
Echoed Rubio's reassurances, stating NATO will be stronger under Trump's leadership while stressing all members must do their fair share.

Coverage

2 of 2 in the archive

World

Trump presses NATO allies to deliver on 5% defence spending pledge at Ankara summit

The US president travels to Turkey expecting concrete plans from European members after last year's Hague agreement, while his administration reviews force posture in Europe and feuds with several allied leaders.

Hélène Mercier6 July 20267 min read

World

Rubio seeks to calm NATO allies as France warns of growing cracks in alliance

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Brussels insisting American commitment to NATO remains ironclad, but French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said the alliance is being tested by President Trump's latest decisions, while European capitals quietly prepare for a possible US troop drawdown.

Hélène Mercier4 April 20258 min read

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