Former presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden criticized comments by Donald Trump threatening not to help NATO allies if attacked by Russia.
At a campaign rally, Trump said he might encourage Russia to act against countries not meeting NATO defense spending obligations.
Biden called such remarks un-American and a threat to security.
Without naming Trump, Obama agreed it would send a dangerous message to allow a NATO ally to be invaded.
Obama posted, “President Biden is absolutely right.”
“The last thing we need right now is a world that is more chaotic and less secure; where dictators feel emboldened and our allies wonder if they can count on us. Let’s keep moving forward,” he continued.
Those close to Obama like Eric Holder have expressed alarm at the prospect of Trump winning in 2024 due to the damage it could cause.
Trump has a history of threatening to break from NATO commitments, worrying alliance leaders.
Formed after World War II to counter the Soviet Union, NATO relies on members assisting if attacked.
Trump argues the US shouldn’t help countries failing to spend 2% of GDP on defense, as required by NATO.
Trump said, “One of the presidents of a big country stood up and said, ‘Well sir, if we don’t pay and we’re attacked by Russia, will you protect us?'”
“I said, ‘You didn’t pay? You’re delinquent?’ He said, ‘Yes, let’s say that happened.’ No, I would not protect you,” recalled the former president.
His comments come amid congressional debate over foreign military aid, including for Ukraine against Russia.
Most Popular:
Cause of Death Released For ‘Rocky’ Movie Star
Supreme Court Audio Suggests Trump Case Is Doomed
