Donald Trump warns NATO of a “very bad” future if allies fail to support reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump has cautioned that NATO could face a “very bad” future if member states do not assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which remains effectively closed amid tensions with Iran.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump noted that while the United States has backed Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, he expects European allies to also contribute toward restoring access to the critical oil route.

“If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO,” Trump said, repeating his long-standing concern that some alliance members depend too heavily on U.S. support.
He also indicated that a proposed summit in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping could be delayed as Washington seeks cooperation from China to address the crisis in the Strait.
“We’d like to know before,” Trump said, adding that China and several European nations rely significantly on oil shipments passing through the Gulf. “It’s only appropriate that people who benefit from the Strait help ensure stability there.”
Speaking separately aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed that the United States is in talks with about seven countries to support efforts to reopen the waterway. He said assistance being sought includes minesweepers and forces capable of countering threats along Iran’s coastline.
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the standoff with Iran has unsettled global oil markets, driving prices upward over the past two weeks amid fears of supply disruptions.
On Sunday, U.S. benchmark West Texas Intermediate rose by 2.5 percent to $100.22 per barrel, while Brent crude increased by 2.9 percent to $106.11 per barrel.