I think this is another example of the unpredictable nature of Trump’s presidency. I disagree that NATO is “obsolete”- it is important both now—in the fight against terrorism—and in the future— stabilizing geopolitical hot spots such as the Arctic. It acts as a unifying part of the global security network. I am glad that the US is putting more pressure on other countries to increase their spending; however right now it is just talk. I think one thing the US needs to do is send a message by decreasing the amount of money they spend on NATO by a small margin. There also needs to be a formal, signed agreement that describes how other states will increase their spending. I agree with Mattis that the US taxpayers should not have to contribute as much money. I think with the rise of Russian aggression and the increasing threat of terrorism, it is in the member states of NATO”s best interest to increase their spending. They do not need to pay as much as the US but it should be proportional to their GDP. Right now, countries like Germany have enough money to increase spending, the US just needs to motivate them. I think US pressure will work because many countries fear the security consequences of a US withdrawal. I think without US leadership, NATO would be far less effective. Clearly, NATO is a powerful and capable alliance, and, as long as the allocation of spending can be proportionally equalized, it can achieve its potential and be a win-win for all countries involved.
