In a recent interview with Russian TV One, Putin expressed a sharp view on the existence and role of NATO, believing that NATO is no longer of any use and is only a tool of US foreign policy. He also commented on the remarks made by former Trump that European countries should pay "protection money" to the United States, saying that this is an American business and has nothing to do with Europeans.
In the interview, Putin said: "I don't think NATO is already of any use, it doesn't make sense. There is only one meaning - it is an instrument of American foreign policy. NATO was created during the Cold War to confront the Soviet Union, and now the Soviet Union no longer exists, and there is no need for NATO to exist. NATO's expansion and military activities will only increase international tension and instability, will not do any good for Europe's security, and will only make Europe a vassal and a victim of the United States. ”
Putin also pointed out that the United States has been putting pressure on Europe to increase defense spending to meet the NATO standard of 2 percent of GDP, and even to pay "protection money" to the United States. Putin said: "This is the business of the Americans, let them figure it out themselves." From his (Trump's) point of view, though, there may be some logic. There is no logic in this from the point of view of the Europeans, who want the United States to continue to perform without compensation certain functions that have been formed since the creation of NATO. It's their business. ”
Putin's remarks have aroused a strong reaction from the West and political circles, who believe that Putin is stirring up relations between Europe and the United States, undermining NATO's unity and trust, and attempting to weaken the West's security defense. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in an interview that NATO is a strong alliance between Europe and North America and an important force for maintaining peace and stability in Europe and the Atlantic region, and will not be influenced and interfered with by Putin. He also said that NATO members will continue to strengthen defense cooperation, improve military capabilities, and respond to Russian and other threats.
The leaders of some European countries also expressed their dissatisfaction and refuted Putin's remarks, believing that Putin is justifying Russia's aggression and interference, trying to ** the partnership between Europe and the United States, and undermining Europe's security and interests. France's Macron said in an interview that Europe needs to maintain a close alliance with the United States to jointly safeguard Europe's sovereignty and values and counter Russia's provocations and threats. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said in an interview that Europe needs to strengthen dialogue and coordination with the United States to jointly address international challenges and crises, including Russia's behavior.
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Putin's remarks have also triggered reflection and discussion in some European countries, believing that Europe needs to be more independent and autonomous in terms of defense and security, and not to rely too much on the United States and not to be led by the United States. Politicians and experts in some European countries have called for Europe to build its own security and defense mechanisms, enhance its military capabilities and diplomatic influence, dialogue and cooperation with the United States and Russia on an equal footing, and safeguard its own interests and dignity.
In short, Putin's remarks have undoubtedly brought new tests and pressures to the relations between Europe and the United States and NATO, and have also brought new challenges and opportunities to Europe's security and defense. Under the current international situation, the unity and trust between Europe, the United States, and NATO, as well as Europe's independence and self-determination, will face severe tests and choices.