U.S. President Donald Trump cannot unilaterally withdraw from NATO, but he could still strain relations within the alliance by criticizing European allies and deepening tensions over defense commitments and recent disagreements, including on Iran policy.

Axar.az reports, citing Axios, since 1949, the United States has been the backbone of the transatlantic alliance. However, experts warn that Trump’s rhetoric and behavior could undermine mutual trust within NATO even if the U.S. remains a member.

“It's already pretty well understood and feared amongst a number of Europeans that even if the U.S. stays in NATO, it's unreliable,” Mark Webber, a professor of international politics at the University of Birmingham said.

The report also highlights that Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO allies over defense spending obligations and has recently expressed frustration over European positions on U.S. military actions and broader alliance coordination.

It is further emphasized that, under a 2023 law, the U.S. president cannot withdraw from NATO without congressional approval.