U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington may reduce its financial contributions to NATO after European allies declined to assist in a potential conflict against Iran. Speaking on Friday, Trump criticized NATO’s absence as a “big mistake” and said the United States spends hundreds of billions of dollars annually to protect NATO countries. He suggested that the U.S. might no longer need to stand by its allies if they do not reciprocate support.

Trump previously urged other nations to send warships to help keep the Strait of Hormuz open, calling the request a “test of loyalty.” He argued that countries relying on U.S. protection should contribute more to their own security, describing the deployment of naval forces as a “very small effort.”

The remarks underscore growing tension between the U.S. and its European allies over defense responsibilities and burden-sharing within NATO, as well as differing approaches to Iran.