London: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has dismissed Donald Trump's comments as 'noise' after the US president said he is considering pulling out of NATO. Trump, who also claimed the United Kingdom does not have a navy, criticized allies for not joining his war with Iran.
According to Ghana News Agency, Trump suggested he might reconsider the United States' membership in NATO, labeling the alliance a "paper tiger." In an interview with The Telegraph, he expressed skepticism about NATO's effectiveness and claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin shares this view.
Asked about Trump's remarks, Starmer emphasized the importance of NATO, stating, "NATO is the single most effective military alliance the world has ever seen, and it has kept us safe for many decades." He reiterated his commitment to the alliance and underscored that the UK would not get involved in the conflict with Iran, asserting that his decisions are based on the British national interest.
Starmer also highlighted the necessity of closer ties with Europe for defense, security, and economic stability. He announced plans for a further summit to enhance previous agreements on military equipment and alignment.
In his interview, Trump criticized NATO allies for their lack of support in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed by Tehran, leading to increased oil and gas prices. He expressed disappointment at the allies' absence and recalled the US's automatic support in previous conflicts, including in Ukraine.
Trump specifically criticized the UK for not participating in the US-Israeli conflict against Iran and questioned the readiness of the Royal Navy. He remarked, "You don't even have a navy. You're too old and had aircraft carriers that didn't work."
When asked about defense spending, Trump declined to advise Starmer but criticized his focus on renewable energy, suggesting it is inflating energy prices.