Trump slams NATO alliesfor not joining Iran war effort

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday criticised NATO allies as “foolish” for not backing Washington’s strikes on Iran, while defending the operation during talks with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin.
Meeting Martin at the Oval Office, Trump said the US acted decisively and did not require allied support, though he questioned NATO’s response. He said allies agreed the action was important but failed to contribute, calling their stance disappointing.
Trump claimed the strikes had severely weakened Iran’s military capabilities, stating its navy, air force and radar systems had been largely destroyed. He reiterated that the objective was to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, warning that Iran had been close to developing one.
He, however, praised support from regional partners, including Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, and highlighted strong coordination with Israel, describing it as a “very strong collaboration”.
On Ukraine, Trump questioned US financial commitments, saying Washington had spent nearly $400 billion while allies had contributed less. He said the US “didn’t have to be there” but stepped in to assist.
He also confirmed that a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping was being rescheduled and could take place in about five weeks, adding that relations with China remained good.
Turning to Cuba, Trump said the administration was considering further action, describing the country as being in a difficult condition.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed the need for structural economic reforms in Cuba, while Vice President JD Vance highlighted ongoing militia threats and the need to prevent such groups from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Martin underscored the importance of transatlantic ties, calling the US-Europe relationship vital. While agreeing that Iran posed a serious risk, he stressed the need for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy, even as differences with Washington persisted.