Kathrine Frich
NATO unity has been one of the biggest obstacles to Russia’s ambitions in Europe.
A strong and coordinated alliance limits Moscow’s ability to exert pressure, making any signs of division within the bloc strategically valuable for the Kremlin.
Moscow reacts
A senior Russian official publicly welcomed signs of division within NATO after comments from US President Donald Trump.
Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund and a key negotiator with Washington, posted a brief message on X: “Farewell, NATO.”
According to Hotnews, the post linked to a Daily Mail report suggesting Trump was preparing to sharply criticize the alliance and consider withdrawing the United States.
The message reflects how Russia views internal disagreements within NATO as strategically significant.
Trump’s stance
While Trump did not explicitly announce a withdrawal in a later speech, he has repeatedly criticized the alliance and its European members.
In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, he described NATO as a “paper tiger” and suggested the US could step away from the alliance following disagreements over military action against Iran.
“Yes, I would say (it’s) beyond any reconsideration,” Trump said when asked whether he might rethink US membership.
He added: “I was never impressed by NATO. I always knew I was a paper tiger, and Putin knows that, by the way.”
Alliance concerns
According to Reuters, any move by the United States to leave NATO would likely require approval from Congress.
However, even signaling reduced commitment could weaken the alliance’s deterrence.
Analysts warn that uncertainty around US support risks undermining confidence among European allies, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions with Russia.
Sources: Reuters, Daily Telegraph, Daily Mail
