If a recent message from President Donald Trump to European leaders is to be taken seriously, the collective defense pact central to NATO membership is already nullified. Trump said Tuesday morning in a Truth Social message to European leaders, "You'll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won't be there to help you anymore, just like you weren't there for us." The president's preceding sentences indicate his frustration was triggered by Europe's refusal to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively shut down. Trump:

All of those countries that can't get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.

This isn't the first time Trump has gotten angry with Europe for refusing to help fight the war in Iran.  

Access Denied

U.S. officials are also upset at NATO member nations that denied American military access to their bases during the war. Those nations include Spain, Italy, the U.K. (which initially blocked American access before opening up for "defensive" or "collective self-defense" missions), and France, which restricts access to its bases except for U.S. aircraft that aren't involved in the war.

Trump called out France on Tuesday. "The Country of France wouldn't let planes headed to Israel, loaded up with military supplies, fly over French territory," he said on Truth Social. "France has been VERY UNHELPFUL with respect to the 'Butcher of Iran,' who has been successfully eliminated! The U.S.A. will REMEMBER!!!"

In Germany, where more American soldiers are stationed than in any other European nation, the ascending Alternative for Germany (AfD) party called for the United States to pull out all its troops. "AfD co-leader, Tino Chrupalla, told a party gathering in east Germany on Saturday that the country should chase an 'independent' foreign policy, starting with the removal of American soldiers," according to reports.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also made comments on Tuesday indicating growing American disillusionment with NATO. "You don't have much of an alliance if you have countries that are not willing to stand with you when you need them," he said. "A lot has been laid bare.… When we ask for additional assistance … we get questions, or roadblocks, or hesitation."