US Ambassador: NATO Allies Must Decide Whose Side They Are On

During an interview with Newsmax on Wednesday, US NATO Ambassador Matthew Whitaker stated that allies of the United States in NATO must unequivocally determine whether they support the US and show their position through concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric. This statement comes in the wake of President Donald Trump's threats to withdraw the US from NATO due to the alliance's lack of support for American military actions against Iran.

Whitaker pointed out that the time for declarations and rhetoric has passed, and the moment for real action has arrived. He stressed the critical importance of ensuring the presence of frigates in the Strait of Hormuz, as this issue has become paramount. The host of the program in which Whitaker participated quoted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who claimed that NATO is the most effective military alliance in the world. She also mentioned that Starmer plans to hold an international diplomatic conference aimed at unblocking shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which has already garnered the agreement of 35 countries.

The US ambassador highlighted that in the past month, European countries have issued numerous statements that sometimes contradict American interests and at other times only partially support them. "Now is not the time for another statement with sharp words. It is time for real action. It is time for frigates in the Strait of Hormuz," Whitaker said, urging allies to take active measures.

Whitaker also addressed allies directly, asking whose side they wish to be on: "Are you on the side of the United States of America? Are you a key ally of the United States of America? Or are you, you know, moving in some other direction? The United States needs clear signs of morale; it is not just words but capabilities and actions that matter," he added.

This statement from Whitaker was a response to recent comments made by President Trump, who, in an interview with the British newspaper The Telegraph, stated that he is seriously considering the possibility of withdrawing the US from NATO due to the alliance's stance on the war in Iran. However, according to media reports, both the US Congress and the Pentagon have assured that the issue of the US withdrawing from NATO is not under discussion, and within the alliance itself, Trump's threats are regarded as a bluff.

In the context of these events, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has scheduled a visit to Washington next week, where he will meet with Trump. This visit could be a significant step in addressing the existing tensions between the US and its European allies within NATO.

It is important to note that the situation surrounding NATO and the US position raises concerns in many countries, as changes in US foreign policy could significantly impact global security and stability. Observers of international politics are closely monitoring the developments, as they could have far-reaching consequences for international relations.