US President Donald Trump has accused some NATO nations of not doing enough to support the United States in the Iran war. In response, European nations have “gotten the message” from Trump and are now ensuring that agreements on the use of military bases are being implemented, according to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Trump’s discontent with European allies was further highlighted by the US announcing plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany. Despite some disappointment from the US side, Rutte told reporters at a European Political Community summit in Armenia that Europeans have listened and are implementing requests for the use of bases and other logistical support.
NATO member Spain has stated that its military bases cannot be used for the war with Iran. However, other NATO countries such as Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Britain, France, and Germany are pre-positioning assets like minehunters and minesweepers close to the Gulf in preparation for a “next phase”.