Trump’s Actions at the NATO Summit

President Donald Trump is in Ankara, Turkey, attending a two-day NATO summit. The gathering focuses on NATO members increasing defense spending and offering support to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Before the summit, Trump launched multiple strikes on Iran and revoked its oil sales license. This move adds tension to the interim deal reached last month between the U.S. and Iran. Trump didn’t address the strikes on Tuesday night.

Loyalty and Military Base Usage

Trump had previously demanded loyalty from NATO countries that hesitated to allow U.S. forces to utilize their bases for strikes on Iran. The recent U.S. strikes raise concerns over the future of the deal with Iran. On Wednesday, Trump plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy seeks Ukraine’s admission into NATO.

Trump’s Remarks on Greenland

On the summit’s eve, Trump reignited controversy by stating that the U.S. should control Greenland, which is under the sovereignty of NATO member Denmark. He also decided to lift sanctions on Turkey, helping Ankara to regain access to F-35 fighter jets.

Denmark’s Response to Territorial Claims

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, responding at the NATO summit, firmly stated, “Greenland is not for sale.” Emphasizing self-determination, she called for respect of territorial integrity. Frederiksen assured that Denmark is prepared to defend its territory with the support of NATO allies.

NATO’s Reaction to U.S. Strikes

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed support for the U.S. strikes on Iran during the summit. He highlighted Iran’s ceasefire violation, stating, “It is crucial that the U.S. reacts strongly.” Rutte anticipates NATO members to reaffirm that Iran must never acquire nuclear capability and to uphold freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.