It is the strongest sign yet that the White House no longer regards Europe as a reliable defense partner following the rejection of Trump’s demand that allies send warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Nato partners have been reluctant to help reopen the strait, through which 20% of the world’s oil typically travels.
Singling out the UK, the US President rebuked Prime Minister Keir Starmer for refusing to get involved in the American-Israeli conflict with Iran, suggesting that the Royal Navy was not up for the task. Trump also questioned the capabilities of the UK’s navy.
Starmer reaffirmed his support for NATO, but signalled that he would seek a closer relationship with Europe in response to the souring of relations with Washington.
