In multiple interviews on April 1, 2026, President Donald Trump stated he is "absolutely" considering withdrawing the United States from NATO. He described the 32-member alliance as a "paper tiger" and indicated that a potential U.S. exit is now "beyond reconsideration".

 

Trump says he is ‘absolutely’ considering withdrawing US from Nato

In multiple interviews on April 1, 2026, President Donald Trump stated he is "absolutely" considering withdrawing the United States from NATO. He described the 32-member alliance as a "paper tiger" and indicated that a potential U.S. exit is now "beyond reconsideration".

 

Key Reasons for Trump's Stance

The President's remarks follow a significant rift with European allies over the ongoing U.S.-Israel war in Iran, which began on February 28, 2024:

 

Lack of Support in Iran: Trump expressed "disgust" that NATO members refused to join military operations or send warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked in retaliation for the conflict.

Basing and Overflight Refusals: Several allies, including Spain, Italy, and France, denied the U.S. use of their military bases or airspace for strikes against Iran.

"One-Way Street": Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the alliance as a "one-way street" where the U.S. defends Europe but receives no assistance when needed for its own objectives.

 

Legal and Practical Hurdles

While Trump has escalated his rhetoric, a unilateral withdrawal faces substantial obstacles:

2023 Congressional Law: A measure co-sponsored by Marco Rubio in 2023 requires a two-thirds Senate super-majority or an Act of Congress to authorize a U.S. withdrawal from NATO.

Executive Workarounds: Legal experts suggest Trump could attempt to circumvent Congress by citing his Commander-in-Chief authority over foreign policy or by withdrawing troops and personnel from the alliance's command structure without formally exiting the treaty.

Constitutional Conflict: Any attempt to bypass the 2023 law would likely trigger a major legal battle between the executive branch and Congress.

 

United Kingdom: Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed that the U.K. is "fully committed" to NATO but insisted he would not let the country be "dragged into" the Iran war.

Europe: Leaders in Germany and Poland have called for calm while reaffirming their commitment to the alliance, though some expressed "disturbing" concern that U.S. deterrence is already being weakened.

 

Trump is scheduled to address the nation in a primetime speech at 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 1, to provide further updates on the war and the future of the alliance.