A high-level European Union official, Thierry Breton, reveals that former U.S. President Donald Trump warned top European officials at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2020.
Breton, a French commissioner overseeing the EU’s internal market, claims Trump stated the U.S. would not assist Europe in case of an attack and declared NATO dead.
Trump’s Statements at Davos:
During the Davos meeting, Breton recounts Trump’s words, quoting him as saying, “You need to understand that if Europe is under attack, we will never come to help you and to support you.”
Additionally, Trump allegedly announced U.S. intentions to leave NATO and insisted on a $400 billion payment from Germany for defense expenditures.
Biden Campaign Reacts Strongly:
President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign criticizes Trump’s reported remarks. A campaign spokesperson emphasizes that such statements highlight Trump’s self-centered approach, stating, “The only person he cares about is himself.”
Trump, currently the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, has not responded to the comments.
When asked about European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recollection of the Davos meeting, a spokesperson declined to comment, citing the president’s policy of not disclosing details from closed-door discussions. This fuels intrigue about the consistency of Trump’s alleged statements.
Uncertainty Surrounding Trump’s Foreign Policy Intentions:
Trump’s aggressive approach with traditional allies during his first term raised concerns. Although he is a likely candidate for the 2024 presidential election, he has offered few details about his foreign policy plans.
Observers speculate that a potential second term might bring more isolationist policies and appointments of loyalists in key positions.