In a striking exchange, CNN’s Jake Tapper asked NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte whether he agrees with President Trump’s claim that NATO countries were “tested and failed.” Rutte responded candidly: “Some of them, yes.”
The remark comes amid growing scrutiny over NATO’s readiness and unity, especially during recent global crises. Trump has repeatedly criticized certain NATO members for not meeting defense commitments, arguing that the alliance’s strength depends on equal burden-sharing and real-world performance under pressure.
Tapper: I heard the claim that NATO countries were not involved because NATO is a defensive organization and this was an offensive war.
Rutte: Yes, but you can't defend yourself without being lethal.