Tensions between the United States and its European allies have intensified following reports that US President Donald Trump threatened to suspend weapons deliveries to Ukraine under the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) programme. According to Financial Times, cited by European Pravda, the warning came amid disagreements over military involvement in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Why Did Trump Pressure NATO Allies Over the Strait of Hormuz?
Reports indicate that Trump urged NATO members to assist in restoring maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz after Iran allegedly blocked the route. However, several European capitals rejected the proposal. In response, Trump reportedly warned that continued US military support for Ukraine could be reconsidered if allies failed to cooperate.
Officials familiar with the discussions revealed that the PURL programme, which is funded by NATO members, could be directly affected by this decision. The move signaled a shift toward leveraging Ukraine aid as a bargaining tool in broader geopolitical negotiations.
How Did NATO Leadership Respond to the Crisis?
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reportedly intervened through a series of calls with Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Following these discussions, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on 19 March, expressing willingness to contribute to “appropriate efforts” aimed at ensuring safe passage through the strait.
One source described Trump as being “rather hysterical” during conversations with European leaders, reflecting the urgency and tension surrounding the issue. British officials did not deny that Washington had linked Ukraine support to NATO participation in the Hormuz operation.
Is the US Considering Withdrawing from NATO?
Trump further escalated concerns by stating he was “absolutely” considering a US withdrawal from NATO, citing dissatisfaction with allies’ refusal to support the Hormuz mission. Meanwhile, The Washington Post reported that the Pentagon is exploring the possibility of redirecting military resources from Ukraine to the Middle East due to increased demand from tensions involving Iran.
Although Rubio stated that weapons purchased by NATO for Ukraine are not currently being diverted, he did not rule out such a scenario in the future.
Why Is Switzerland Reconsidering Its Patriot Missile Purchase?
Separately, Switzerland is reviewing its agreement to purchase Patriot air-defense systems from the United States due to significant delivery delays. Defence Minister Martin Pfister confirmed that cancellation remains an option if timelines are not clarified.
The Swiss government had initially ordered five Patriot systems in 2022, with deliveries expected to begin this year and conclude by 2028. However, delays emerged after the US prioritized supplying Ukraine with defense equipment.
What Financial Concerns Are Affecting the Deal?
Switzerland has already suspended payments for the system and is awaiting firm delivery schedules and payment terms from Washington. Adding to concerns, Swiss officials revealed that the US accessed funds intended for Patriot purchases through a shared financing pool linked to the acquisition of F-35A fighter jets.
Authorities warned that if the fund’s liquidity drops below a critical level, not only the Patriot deal but other defense projects under the Foreign Military Sales programme could be at risk.
What Happens Next for Switzerland’s Defense Strategy?
Despite uncertainties, Swiss officials still expect eventual delivery of the systems, though timelines remain unclear. The government is currently evaluating multiple options, including potential cancellation, and plans to present a formal recommendation by the end of June 2026.