Donald Trump Threatens To Halt Ukraine Weapons To Push European Allies on Strait of Hormuz: Report
Donald Trump has reportedly threatened to halt US weapons support for Ukraine to pressure NATO allies into joining efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. European nations initially resisted but later signalled limited support. The dispute highlights growing tensions within NATO and the broader impact of Middle East conflict on global security and energy routes.
London, April 1: US President Donald Trump has reportedly threatened to halt weapons support for Ukraine in an effort to push European allies into joining a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to officials familiar with the discussions. The strategic waterway has been effectively closed by Iran following recent US and Israeli strikes, disrupting a route that carries a significant share of the world’s oil supply.
The reported pressure comes amid growing tensions between Washington and European capitals over military priorities, with the US seeking broader NATO involvement in securing maritime routes in the Gulf, the Financial Times reported. US President Donald Trump, Iran Discuss Ceasefire Deal Linked to Strait of Hormuz Reopening: Report.
Pressure Tied to Ukraine Military Aid
According to officials, Trump warned that the US could stop supplying weapons through NATO-backed procurement channels supporting Ukraine if allies refused to participate in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The warning was linked to the PURL mechanism, a NATO initiative used by European countries to fund and coordinate weapons deliveries to Ukraine.
While US officials have said no immediate diversion of supplies has occurred, they have not ruled out future changes depending on American strategic needs. Donald Trump Signals Possible NATO Exit Amid Growing Rift With Allies Over Iran Conflict.
European Allies Initially Resist
European governments, including France, Germany and the United Kingdom, initially resisted US calls to deploy naval forces to the region.
Officials cited the ongoing conflict as a major constraint and argued that the situation did not directly involve their national security interests.
However, following diplomatic engagement, including intervention by Mark Rutte, a joint statement was issued on March 19 expressing readiness to support efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait.
NATO Mediation and Diplomatic Efforts
Officials said Rutte held multiple discussions with Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ahead of the joint statement. The statement, signed by several NATO members, signalled a shift toward potential cooperation, although details of any military deployment remain unclear.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has since said that talks are planned among signatory countries to explore forming a coalition once active hostilities subside.
Broader Tensions Within NATO
The episode reflects wider disagreements within NATO over burden-sharing and strategic priorities. Trump has repeatedly criticised European allies for not contributing enough to US-led military efforts, while framing the conflict in Ukraine as primarily Europe’s responsibility.
He has also indicated he may consider reassessing US involvement in NATO, raising concerns about alliance cohesion.
Impact on Global Security and Supply Chains
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has had significant implications for global energy markets, as the route typically handles about one-fifth of global oil shipments. At the same time, increased demand for military resources, such as air defence systems used both in the Middle East and Ukraine, has added pressure on supply chains.
Analysts say the situation highlights the interconnected nature of global conflicts, where developments in one region can directly affect security and policy decisions elsewhere.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 01, 2026 11:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).