Donald Trump voiced disappointment with NATO allies during the Iran conflict, claiming some refused to support US military objectives and base access. He tested allies' commitment, specifically mentioning Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's reluctance regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Trump praised Turkey's President Erdogan as a constructive partner.
Negotiations should not become a tool for deception or the advancement of military objectives, Mohammad Reza Sabouri, the Islamic Republic’s ambassador to Italy, said
US President Donald Trump has signaled he is actively considering reducing American troop presence in Italy and Spain, sharply criticizing both NATO members over their refusal to support the US-backed military campaign against Iran. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said Italy has 'not been of any help' and Spain has been 'horrible, absolutely horrible.' The comments mark an escalation in tensions with European allies, with Trump also reviewing troop levels in Germany. As of December 31, 2025, there were 12,662 US troops in Italy and 3,814 in Spain.
US President Donald Trump has signaled potential troop reductions in Italy and Spain, criticizing both NATO members for their refusal to support the US-backed military campaign against Iran. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump said he is actively considering scaling back deployments, stating Italy has not been helpful and Spain has been 'horrible.' The comments mark an escalation in tensions between Washington and European allies, with Trump also reviewing troop levels in Germany amid broader disagreements over the Iran conflict and burden-sharing within NATO.
