Kurt Volker, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO, told European leaders on Thursday they should express gratitude to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for his complimentary and enthusiastic support of President Donald Trump’s approach to the conflict with Iran.
Volker, who appeared earlier in the week, stated that Rutte is performing a service for European leaders by working closely with Trump. “Frankly, I think European leaders ought to be thanking Mark Rutte for being complimentary, being enthusiastic because then they don’t have to,” Volker said. He argued that while European leaders face domestic political pressures, they should adopt a strategic tone when engaging with Trump, emphasizing cooperation on security issues in the Persian Gulf and the free flow of energy.
“Go out and say, ‘We have a vested interest in security in the Persian Gulf and the free flow of energy. We’re prepared to contribute to a regime that would ensure that remains free and fair and open,’” Volker advised. “We don’t have that yet. We need to see a more stable situation so we know where to pitch in. But let’s work together.”
Volker warned that European politicians risk damaging critical alliances by openly criticizing Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict. He cautioned that such criticism could alienate Donald Trump and trigger broader tensions between the U.S. and its allies.
The remarks come as several European leaders, including officials from the United Kingdom, France, and Spain, have publicly condemned Trump’s decision to launch military action against Iran. This has deepened the growing divide between Washington and parts of Europe.
Volker also defended Trump’s strategy toward Iran, stating that the president was correct in taking decisive action to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. He dismissed longstanding claims by Iran that its nuclear program is peaceful, saying the regime has pursued such capabilities “for decades.” Additionally, Volker supported Trump’s earlier withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear deal, calling it flawed and ineffective.
The ongoing conflict has reshaped global dynamics, with Iran retaliating through attacks on U.S. assets and disruptions to key shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies. Despite these tensions, Volker emphasized that maintaining a strong U.S.-Europe alliance remains essential as broader security challenges mount.
