NATO, the foundation of Western security architecture since the end of World War II, faces the deepest crisis in its history, particularly after recent statements by US President Donald Trump.

Trump called NATO members "cowards" and said he "will remember" who refused to participate in operations against Iran. "Without the US, NATO is a paper tiger," he wrote, criticizing allies for not helping open the Strait of Hormuz.

Article 5, which provides for collective defense, has been activated only once in history - after the September 11, 2001 attacks, when European allies collectively defended the US. Today there is serious doubt whether Washington would do the same for its allies.

Security analyst Bozo Kovacevic said the US would not unconditionally defend NATO members, but would evaluate each decision through the lens of national interests. Trump has effectively exposed the American stance - NATO functions as an instrument primarily serving American interests.

Europe is already strengthening independent defense capabilities with the 800 billion euro ReArm Europe initiative, expanded French nuclear deterrence and significantly increased defense budgets across member states.