In a rare bipartisan move, Republicans in Congress have passed a measure that would prevent President Donald Trump from withdrawing the US from NATO without their approval.
The provision, which was included in the annual defense policy bill, aims to protect the alliance that has been a cornerstone of US foreign policy and security interests in Europe and beyond for more than seven decades.
Trump has long criticized NATO as “obsolete” and threatened to pull out of the alliance if its members did not meet his demands for increased defense spending. He has also questioned its value and relevance in the face of rising threats from Russia and China. However, his threats have been met with strong opposition from both Democrats and Republicans, who view NATO as a vital strategic partner and a deterrent against aggression.
The bipartisan amendment to the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act would not allow the president to withdraw from NATO without congressional approval, requiring two-thirds of senators to vote for withdrawal. The legislation also authorizes Congress to establish its own legal counsel to represent the legislature before federal courts in any dispute with the White House over NATO withdrawal.
The provision could have significant implications for Trump’s potential return to power in 2024. If he were to run again and win against a Democrat who supports NATO, he would face strong resistance from Congress and public opinion if he tried to withdraw from NATO without congressional authorization. Moreover, he would risk damaging his relations with key allies who rely on US leadership and support under NATO’s Article 5 collective defense clause.
On the other hand, if he were unable to run again due to legal or health reasons or if he lost badly against a Democrat who opposes his views on NATO and other issues, then his threat could become moot or irrelevant.
Regardless of what happens in 2024, Republicans have taken away one of Trump’s most powerful weapons in foreign policy while president, limiting his ability to use it against his political opponents or allies. This could be seen as a sign of their growing concern about Trump’s erratic behavior, divisive rhetoric, and disregard for democratic norms and institutions. It could also be seen as an attempt by them to restore some stability, credibility, and continuity in US foreign policy after four years of chaos and uncertainty.
