CHARLESTON, SC – Former President Donald Trump reiterated his controversial stance on NATO, declaring at a rally in South Carolina that the U.S. would not defend any NATO ally failing to spend at least 2 percent of its GDP on defense. Despite criticism from President Joe Biden and international allies, Trump defended his position, emphasizing his commitment to holding countries accountable for their defense budgets.

Defending NATO Spending Criteria

Trump stood by his assertion that if NATO allies fail to meet the 2 percent spending benchmark, the U.S. would not provide protection. He recounted an interaction with a foreign leader, stating, “‘Does that mean that if we don’t pay the bills, that you’re not going to protect us?’ … ‘That’s exactly what it means. I’m not going to protect you.’”

Mixed GOP Response

While Trump’s comments drew condemnation from President Biden and some international leaders, the reaction within the GOP has been mixed. Some Republicans offered nods of approval, while others downplayed Trump’s words. Notably, Trump did not reiterate his previous remark that he would encourage Russia to act freely against countries not meeting defense spending commitments.

Biden Condemns Trump’s NATO Stance

President Biden, calling Trump’s comments “shameful,” criticized the former president’s approach, stating, “The worst thing is he means it. No other president in our history has ever bowed down to a Russian dictator. For God’s sake, it’s dumb, it’s shameful, it’s dangerous, it’s un-American.”

Trump’s Long-Standing Critique of NATO

Trump has long been critical of NATO and European nations failing to fulfill defense spending commitments. Despite pressure from allies and Democrats, Trump maintains that if countries do not contribute adequately, the U.S. should not be obligated to defend them under NATO’s collective defense clause, Article 5.

NATO’s Response and U.S. Aid Bill

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg reported member countries increasing defense spending, with 18 of 31 nations on track to meet the 2 percent GDP pledge. Trump’s comments coincide with the Senate passing a $95 billion bill with aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Trump suggested foreign aid should come as a loan, not a grant, a proposal he discussed with senators.

Trump’s Rally and 2024 Polling

The rally in South Carolina comes as Trump leads polls by double digits against former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley in the state’s upcoming primary on February 24. Trump’s unscripted remarks, as observed by some, highlight a distinctive approach when departing from prepared speeches.