Tensions inside NATO are reaching a boiling point, and according to The Economist’s editor-in-chief Zanny Minton Beddoes, European leaders are now seriously confronting the possibility of a full-blown “divorce” within the alliance. That’s right—the kind of scenario many in the political class used to dismiss is now very much on the table.
This comes after President Donald Trump made it clear he is strongly considering pulling the United States out of NATO, citing frustration with allies who refuse to step up—particularly in the ongoing Iran conflict. Trump, who has long criticized NATO for uneven burden-sharing, reportedly said reconsidering U.S. involvement is “beyond consideration.” Translation: he’s not bluffing.
The latest flashpoint? European nations rejecting Trump’s request to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply flows. With Iran threatening to restrict access following U.S. strikes on its targets, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But when it came time to act, America’s allies apparently decided to sit this one out. (So much for “collective defense,” right?)
Beddoes, speaking on CNN’s “Global Public Square,” said European leaders are furious—not just about the pressure, but also about being called out. She pointed to the fact that NATO’s Article 5 was only ever invoked after 9/11, when European forces joined the U.S. in Afghanistan. Fair point—but critics would argue that past contributions don’t exactly excuse present hesitation when global security is on the line.
At the same time, European leaders are grappling with their own concerns. Their economies remain heavily dependent on Gulf energy supplies, making any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz a direct threat. So yes, they’re worried—but being worried and taking action are two very different things.
On top of that, statements suggesting that “NATO is finished” have only added fuel to the fire. For European officials, it’s a wake-up call. For the Trump administration, it’s a long-overdue reality check.
Because here’s the bottom line: alliances only work when everyone carries their weight. For years, American taxpayers have footed the bill while others lagged behind. Now, with global tensions rising, President Trump is making it clear—either NATO adapts, or the U.S. rethinks its role entirely.
And honestly, that kind of accountability might be exactly what the alliance needs.
