Obama Says US to Remain Committed to Defending NATO Allies

Throughout his campaign, US President-elect Donald Trump repeatedly backed review of Washington’s relations with its NATO allies, and expressed support for the idea that they should pay a fair price for the United States providing their security.

"Today’s NATO, the world’s greatest alliance, is as strong and ready as it’s ever been. And I am confident that just as America’s commitment to the transatlantic alliances endured for seven decades whether it’s been under Democratic or Republican administration that commitment will continue including our pledge and treaty obligation to defend every ally," Obama said in a speech in Greece, according to Sputnik.

Also on Monday, Obama reassured the world that Trump will be committed to NATO as president, despite his past rhetoric that might suggest otherwise.

“He expressed a great interest in maintaining our core strategic relationships,” Obama said, recalling his conversation with Trump in the Oval Office last week. “And so, one of the messages I will be able to deliver is his commitment to NATO and the transatlantic alliance.”