Turkey Warns of Harm if U. S. Pulls Out of European Security Plans

Turkey’s foreign minister said the United States might pull out of Europe’s security framework, and that could cause big problems for the continent. He spoke at a meeting in Antalya but did not give details of what is being discussed. The main point was that any U. S. exit, even a partial one, would be damaging if it is not coordinated with the rest of Europe. The U. S. has already hinted at leaving NATO after European allies refused to send ships through the Strait of Hormuz during a conflict with Iran. That decision added tension inside the alliance, which had already been strained by other U. S. demands, such as a claim to Greenland. The minister added that he has long criticized EU members of NATO for acting as a separate group and making choices that sometimes go against the alliance’s overall strategy. He said that if the U. S. were to “cut ties, ” it would leave those European members in a difficult position.He urged other countries to use the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara as an opportunity to reset relations with Washington and plan for a possible reduction of U. S. forces in Europe. The summit could help keep the alliance together even if the United States steps back. The NATO secretary general has acknowledged U. S. frustrations but also noted that most European nations have supported Washington’s efforts against Iran. A senior U. S. official has said that the president is also thinking about removing some troops from Europe, which could further weaken the alliance. In short, Turkey is warning that an uncoordinated U. S. exit from Europe’s security arrangements would hurt the continent and that leaders should work together to avoid a destructive split.