Canada’s foreign minister vague on NATO question

By Barry Ellsworth

TRENTON, Canada (AA) - Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland skirted a question Tuesday when asked about Donald Trump’s remarks that he would not guarantee the safety of allies if they do not meet the NATO spending target.

“It’s up to the American people to choose their leader,” Freeland replied at a news conference.

Trump’s commented Saturday that he would encourage Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to members of NATO who do not spend 2% of their gross domestic product on their military.

Only about one-third of the 31 members -- Sweden to be added in 2024 -- meet the spending requirement, according to UK Forces News. Canada spent 1.3% in 2022 on its military.

Several NATO allies, and the White House, reacted with shock at Trump’s musings, but Canada delivered a softer response.

Besides saying that Americans elect their leader, Freeland, when asked point blank if NATO is finished, answered with the purpose of the military alliance.

“The core principle of NATO is an attack on one country is an attack on all,” she said. “That is what makes the alliance so powerful.”

Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair also chose his words carefully when asked about Trump’s remarks.

“I don’t think we need to overreact but I think we need to make sure we are prepared and keep our alliances strong,” Blair told reporters Monday.

“There is a political election and debate going on in another country, we're going to hear rhetorical statements,” said Blair. “The best deterrent to a bully is strength and we’re investing in that strength.”