NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte dismissed speculation that the US might leave the alliance. In an interview with Germany's Die Welt, Rutte said he doesn't believe America would take that step, describing the American nuclear umbrella as "the ultimate guarantee of European security."

But why does something that should be obvious even need explaining? Because Trump again criticized NATO partners for "insufficient support" in the campaign against Iran, specifically naming Spain, France, and the UK. Any US withdrawal from NATO would require a two-thirds majority in the American Senate - considered extremely unlikely.

Rutte met with Trump at the White House last week and subsequently reported that Trump appeared "clearly disappointed" by the support of only a few member states. Disputed issues include the use of military bases and operations securing the Strait of Hormuz.

The Secretary General called on European countries to strengthen their defense industry, arguing it's essential for maintaining deterrence capabilities. The message is clear: Europe can no longer rely exclusively on Washington. The question is whether it will listen this time.