Trump's controversial remarks spark outrage: Encourages Russia to attack if NATO countries don't boost defence
"President Biden has fortified our alliances and has strengthened our global standing, understanding that the foremost duty of any leader is ensuring the safety of American citizens," said White House spokesman Andrew Bates, reacting to Donald Trump's shocking statement.
"To encourage murderous regimes to invade our closest allies is both horrifying and insane. It poses a threat to American security, worldwide stability, and our economy," he underlined.
Trump's scandalous declaration
Whilst addressing a campaign rally in South Carolina, Donald Trump lambasted NATO countries for their apparent unwillingness to augment defence spending.
He showcased a conversation he had with a leader of one of the NATO countries, keeping the identity concealed. He claimed the leader had asked him if the US would offer its defence should their country fail to adequately invest in their own military and Russia staged an attack.
"No, I wouldn't defend you. In reality, I would go as far as encouraging them (the Russians) to act as they please. You must pay up. It's crucial to pay your bills," Trump asserted.
In 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea, NATO countries agreed to boost defence spending to 2% of GDP by 2024. "The Guardian" reports that for the year 2022, only seven out of the 31 countries have met this goal. Nevertheless, changes accelerated after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
