Trump, a former U.S. former who is likely to re-enter the White House, claimed on Saturday that he would "encourage" Russia to attack NATO members that have not met their financial obligations. Mr. Trump's longtime questioning of NATO is by far his most extreme criticism of the military alliance.
In response to Trump's remarks, Biden warned that Trump intended to "allow" Russian leader Vladimir Putin to "unleash more war and violence", describing it as "both shoddy and dangerous".
As Russia approaches the end of two years of its invasion of Ukraine, the US Congress is discussing a new aid package for Kyiv. But Mr. Trump has repeatedly said it would be unfair to make the United States commit to defending the other 30 members of NATO. Speaking at a campaign rally in South Carolina on Saturday, he referred to a conversation with another head of state at an unspecified NATO meeting.
"There will be a big power ** in the meeting who stands up and says: 'Well, sir, if we don't pay and are attacked by Russia, will you protect us?'" he said. I said, 'You didn't pay, do you want to be a debtor?' No, I won't protect you. In fact, I would encourage them (Russia) to do whatever they want. You have to pay the price. You have to pay your bills. ”
White House spokesman Bates said in a statement that evening: "It is shocking and unhinging to encourage the intrusion of the remnants of power into our closest allies. He added: "Biden** will continue to strengthen U.S. leadership, not call for war and fuel mad chaos." ”
Biden also issued a statement saying, "Trump's admission that his intention to allow Vladimir Putin to unleash more war and violence, to allow him to continue to attack free Ukraine with cold callousness, and to expand his aggressive actions against the people of Poland and the Baltic states is both shoddy and dangerous." ”
In response to Trump's remarks, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg responded: "Any suggestion that allies will not defend each other will harm our security, including the security of the United States." Charles Michel, president of the European Council, similarly condemned Trump's recklessness, saying they were "only good for Putin."