Elon Musk, a key advisor to former US President Donald Trump, has publicly called for the United States to leave NATO, reigniting discussions about the transatlantic military alliance’s relevance and the country’s commitment to European defence.
In a post on his social media platform X on Sunday, Musk wrote, "Exit NATO now."
He later reinforced his stance, arguing that there was no rationale for the US to bear the responsibility of Europe’s defence.
"The United States should truly withdraw from NATO," he asserted.
Trump, since assuming office for his second term, has repeatedly threatened to impose tariffs on the European Union (EU), heightening transatlantic frictions.
His perceived affinity for Russian President Vladimir Putin has further unsettled European leaders, especially as he has openly questioned the security guarantees that NATO provides to its member states.
His remarks, coupled with Musk’s endorsement of a US departure from NATO, have deepened concerns about Washington’s long-term commitment to the alliance.
NATO, which is set to mark its 76th anniversary next month, now faces renewed uncertainty over its strategic direction and the extent of US participation.
Despite the rhetoric from Trump and Musk, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has maintained that the US remains a crucial NATO partner.
Acknowledging differences between Washington and Brussels, she emphasised, "There will always be disagreements, but they must be resolved to move forward."
When questioned about NATO’s future, she admitted that the alliance’s policies over the past 25 to 30 years may no longer hold the same relevance today.
Musk’s comments, echoing Trump’s scepticism towards NATO, have once again brought the US-EU alliance under scrutiny, leaving experts pondering the implications of a potential American withdrawal.
