NATO Shields Itself From a Possible Trump Return

What’s happening: The Biden administration and NATO allies have spent months seeking ways to “Trump-proof” NATO and its support for Ukraine. The concern comes amid nuclear threats from Russia and fears that Trump might terminate aid to Ukraine or withdraw the U.S. from NATO entirely.

Why it matters: If the U.S. stopped supporting Ukraine, the country would likely lose the war. And if the U.S. suddenly left NATO, Europe would be unprepared to defend against Russia creeping further into the continent.

Trump-proofing: Regarding two specific issues, NATO supporters are trying to thwart Trump’s potential actions should he retake the White House.

• Helping Ukraine: The U.S. oversees aid transfers to Ukraine from our allies. The proposed shift would give NATO a more central role, meaning that a future Trump presidency could not single-handedly block transfers of weaponry.

• Leaving NATO? The larger concern among internationalists is that Trump may try to withdraw the U.S. from NATO. However, thanks to a law passed during Biden’s presidency, the president cannot leave NATO without congressional assent.

Remaining options: Barring NATO secession, Trump could simply withdraw America’s troops from Europe. And while he could not stop other countries from supplying weapons to Ukraine, he could withhold American aid until Ukraine rescinds its demand for the return of all seized land.