Never mind Trump – if Europe wants to save Nato, it must win over the American people | Leslie Vinjamuri
Summary
European leaders are focusing on convincing not just President Trump but also the American public to support NATO. The NATO secretary general's visit to Iowa highlights the need to build understanding about NATO and shared security in parts of the U.S. outside political elites. Europeans continue to increase defense spending to keep the alliance strong amid tensions over Russia's war in Ukraine.Key Facts
- NATO secretary general Mark Rutte visited Des Moines, Iowa, to reach American public audiences about NATO’s future.
- Russian aggression in Ukraine has made European countries rethink their security and dependence on the U.S.
- Europe is increasing defense spending by 20% in 2025 compared to 2024 among EU countries.
- Many Americans still support NATO, with 68% favoring maintaining or increasing U.S. involvement.
- Confidence that European allies would defend the U.S. if attacked dropped from 62% in 2025 to 47% recently.
- 58% of Americans support sending more arms and economic aid to Ukraine.
- European leaders aim to improve public diplomacy in the U.S., especially in areas outside Washington’s foreign-policy circles.
- There is a common misconception in the U.S. that Europe benefits unfairly from American defense efforts, despite Europe’s recent increased spending.
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