Trump says he might withdraw the U.S. from NATO, even though the law says he can't without Congress' approval
CBS News • • world
Key Points:
- President Trump is considering withdrawing the U.S. from NATO, citing dissatisfaction with member countries' defense spending and lack of support in the ongoing war with Iran.
- A 2023 law, supported by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and passed by Congress, requires Senate approval for the U.S. to leave NATO, aiming to prevent unilateral withdrawal by the president.
- Despite the legal barrier, Trump has claimed he can exit NATO without Congress, raising concerns about potential executive overreach and ensuing legal battles.
- NATO, founded in 1949, is a defensive alliance of 32 countries based on collective security, with Article 5 stating an attack on one member is an attack on all.
- The U.S.'s strained relations with NATO allies amid the Iran conflict and Trump's critical stance risk weakening the alliance, with questions about America's future commitment to collective defense and nuclear deterrence.
