NATO Expert Urges Europe to Link Support for Trump to Arms for Ukraine

What Happened On March 27, 2026, Gerlinde Niehus, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Defence and Security Cooperation at NATO, spoke to Ukrinform about the relationship between European support for U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Iran and military aid for Ukraine. Niehus argued that European NATO allies should not succumb to U.S. pressures, particularly when it comes to negotiations about aid and support. ## Key Details Niehus labeled Trump's approach as 'blackmail,' referencing previous instances where Trump threatened NATO unity, including a notable warning back in 2018 about possible U.S. withdrawal from the Alliance. She stated, "If you give in to a bully, you only encourage him to hit you even harder," reflecting on the need for European nations to stand united against such strategies. She advised that if Trump requires assistance, European countries should consider their options carefully and link Trump's support for Iran with conditions that would benefit Ukraine, such as the provision of U.S. weapons to strengthen its defense. Moreover, Niehus pointed out that Trump's rhetoric has already diminished NATO's credibility and has benefited Russian President Vladimir Putin. She stated that Trump's demands create a perception of the U.S. as an unreliable partner, undermining the trust essential for NATO's collective security principles. Niehus expressed skepticism about the rapid conclusion of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that neither Trump nor Putin is genuinely interested in a just peace. She argued that the war could conclude more swiftly if Western powers applied decisive pressure on Russia and provided Ukraine with unrestrictive military support. ## Why It Matters Niehus's commentary sheds light on the intricate ties between transatlantic alliances and the geopolitical maneuvers surrounding Ukraine. Given the precarious security situation in Europe, her insights reflect the urgent need for cohesive strategies among NATO allies to ensure stability and support for Ukraine. ## Background The ongoing war in Ukraine has dramatically shifted global security dynamics, raising questions about NATO's unity and effectiveness. Trump's recent comments about NATO's future have reignited concerns about the Alliance's direction and the implications of U.S. foreign policy. Niehus's views highlight the importance of maintaining a strong Western stance against aggressive actions from Russia and require a collaborative approach among NATO countries. As the situation evolves, the way Europe engages with Trump's administration could shape future developments in European security and its relationship with Ukraine.