Trump torches allies as Iran exposes limits of hard power
Summary
President Donald Trump has criticized U.S. allies for not supporting his Iran policy and is reducing military cooperation with some of them, including South Korea. His administration is also questioning NATO allies about their loyalty and may cut troop deployments based on their responses, signaling a shift toward demanding more reciprocal relationships.Key Facts
- President Trump ordered a big cut in the joint military exercises with South Korea, called Ulchi Freedom Shield, because South Korea declined to join the U.S. in efforts to denuclearize Iran.
- These military exercises have helped deter North Korean aggression for about 50 years.
- The Pentagon sent a survey to NATO countries asking how much they support Trump’s foreign policy and U.S. military activities.
- The U.S. plans to reduce about 5,000 troops in Germany after criticism of Trump’s Iran strategy by German leaders.
- Trump threatened to cut trade ties with Spain and considered suspending Spain from NATO after Spain refused U.S. base access for strikes on Iran.
- Oman, a longtime U.S. partner, faces U.S. threats if it interferes with an Iran deal, despite helping broker negotiations.
- The deadline for a peace deal with Iran passed without agreement, showing limits to U.S. military and economic pressure.
- The U.S. Navy is temporarily pulling a carrier from Asia, which leaves the region without a carrier for a time.
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