Trump's Russia Policy and NATO Criticism Raise European Concerns Ahead of Alliance Summit
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio heads to NATO meetings amid growing European concerns about the Trump administration's Russia policy and criticism of allies. NATO members worry about Trump's desire to reestablish ties with Putin, unprovoked verbal attacks on Canada and Denmark, and questions about America's commitment to the alliance. European officials fear Trump may upend NATO's 75-year foundation at the upcoming June summit. While allies prepare "burden shifting" plans to compensate for potential US troop withdrawals, they seek clarity on American intentions and question why they should increase defense spending if Russia is no longer considered a threat. Rubio faces the difficult task of reassuring anxious allies while representing the administration's contradictory positions.