Trump’s remarks renewed speculation that Defense Secretary James Mattis might be one official soon to leave the administration, although Mattis, travelling to Asia yesterday, told media that Trump had assured him of his job and full presidential support. As secretary, Mattis has helped to carry the administration’s message to US allies and defence partners globally. Three themes have emerged in the administration’s often ad hoc approach to alliances: insistence that allies increase their defence burden-sharing; decoupling security and economic relations within the alliance; and giving reduced attention to allies’ human rights records, in favour of security issues.
US defence partners wishing to stay US-aligned may need to make holistic changes to their defence and fiscal arrangements.
The Democratic Party supports US military preparedness and alliances but can be more cautious about increasing defence spending.
There is considerable scepticism towards NATO in Turkey, which will be an internal strain on the alliance.
