Zelensky and Trump may cause tensions at the NATO summit

According to the New York Times, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expects a short and uneventful alliance summit on 24 and 25 June in the Netherlands. The main topic is expected to focus on new defence spending targets.

The attendance of US President Donald Trump and the invitation extended to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could disrupt the planned agenda.

It is not yet clear whether Zelensky will be invited to the official dinner or take part in the NATO–Ukraine Council meeting. Instead, the Ukrainian President may be invited to a parallel defence industry forum.

Trump opposes Ukraine's accession to NATO and has reduced support for Kyiv, while seeking to normalise relations with Russia. US arms deliveries are ongoing, but continued funding from Congress remains uncertain.

This summit will take place against the backdrop of the United States stepping back from its role as Europe’s main security guarantor. A review of the American military presence on the continent is underway, which could lead to the withdrawal or redeployment of some of the 84,000 troops. The US emphasises that it will not allow a security vacuum but is urging Europe to assume its responsibilities more rapidly.

(MH with FM – Source: Agency – Photo: © DPA – Consolidated News Photos – Jim LoScalzo – Pool via CNP)