Donald Trump has not made an explicit declaration to withdraw the U.S. from NATO, but he has long been critical of the alliance, particularly regarding what he views as unequal defense spending among member nations.

Trump has previously suggested that the U.S. could reduce its role or leave NATO unless other countries increase their financial contributions.

These comments have sparked concern about his stance if he were to return to the presidency.

In response to such concerns, Congress passed legislation in 2023 that makes it more difficult for any U.S. president to withdraw from NATO.

The law requires two-thirds approval from the Senate or a Congressional act for such a decision, effectively preventing unilateral withdrawal by the president.

This measure was specifically aimed at safeguarding NATO against potential policy shifts during a future Trump administration.

While Trump’s rhetoric has occasionally hinted at reducing U.S. commitments to NATO, legal and institutional safeguards make an actual withdrawal highly unlikely without significant bipartisan support in Congress.