Trump Signals Major Shift Away from NATO, Calls Alliance a “Paper Tiger” After Allies Refuse to Help Secure Strait of Hormuz
In a blunt interview with The Telegraph published April 1, 2026, Trump said he is now “beyond reconsideration” on leaving the 32-member defense pact. “I was never swayed by NATO. I always knew they were a paper tiger, and Putin knows that too, by the way,” he stated.
Tommy Flynn
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump is strongly considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, citing the alliance’s refusal to support U.S. military operations against Iran and secure the Strait of Hormuz.
In a blunt interview with The Telegraph published April 1, 2026, Trump said he is now “beyond reconsideration” on leaving the 32-member defense pact. “I was never swayed by NATO. I always knew they were a paper tiger, and Putin knows that too, by the way,” he stated.
The president’s frustration stems from European allies’ refusal to contribute naval forces or other assistance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has partially blocked with mines, drones, and missiles since late February. The strait carries roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments. Trump specifically criticized the United Kingdom for failing to provide naval support under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Trump directly told allies struggling with jet-fuel shortages: “Build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He added, “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the administration’s view that NATO has become a “one-way street” in which the U.S. defends Europe without reciprocal support. Rubio warned that continued allied inaction could limit U.S. basing rights and force a fundamental reevaluation of American commitments.
The remarks come as the U.S. and Israel continue targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites with minimal direct European involvement. Several Gulf states most directly threatened by Iran have privately backed continued U.S. action, in contrast to the reluctance shown by distant NATO capitals.
Trump has long criticized NATO burden-sharing, but the Iran conflict has crystallized his view that the alliance no longer serves American interests when allies decline to act. No formal withdrawal process has begun, but senior officials say all options are now under active review.
The president has offered to sell U.S. oil to affected nations as a short-term solution while making clear the era of unconditional U.S. protection for Europe is ending.