Trump wants to change NATO, not leave it
The case that Europe, not America, is the one breaking the NATO bargain, framed as bad news for European governments used to a cheap ride.
- Germany agreed to spend 2% on defense and has not done it.
- That money went to housing and services for migrants instead, so American taxpayers cover the gap.
- Trump's demand is for allies to pay what they already signed up for, not for the U.S. to walk away.
- The claim that he wants to quit NATO is a misread of a businessman's negotiating tactic.
- The goal is described as equal rights and equal duties among members, not American dominance.
Outlook: Expect more pressure on Berlin and other capitals to hit their spending targets before Washington softens its stance.