U.S. President Donald Trump is attending a two-day NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, with a focus on defense spending and support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The summit’s agenda has been overshadowed by Trump’s new series of strikes on Iran and the revocation of a license allowing Tehran to sell oil globally. These actions, which Trump did not address during Tuesday night’s speeches, create tension among NATO countries.
Earlier, Trump emphasized the need for loyalty from NATO countries, urging them to allow U.S. forces to use their bases for operations against Iran. This marks another escalation in hostilities between the U.S. and Iran, threatening the interim agreement reached last month.
On Wednesday, Trump plans to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who will renew Ukraine’s request to join NATO. Additionally, Trump has sparked controversy by reiterating the U.S. interest in controlling Greenland, despite opposition from Denmark.
The summit also features Trump’s announcement of lifting sanctions on Turkey, aiding Ankara in regaining access to F-35 fighter jets. In response to Trump’s remarks on Greenland, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen asserted Greenland is not for sale and emphasized self-determination and territorial sovereignty. Denmark remains committed to defending its territory and expects NATO allies to uphold mutual defense agreements.
“Greenland is of course not for sale.”
Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte defended the U.S. strikes on Iran, citing violations of the ceasefire by Iran. He stressed the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities and ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Rutte anticipates NATO members will underscore these points during the summit.