Trump Pressures European Allies: Specific Escort Plan Must Be Submitted Within Days

BlockBeats News, April 9th, according to a senior NATO official, the US government is exerting strong pressure on European allies, demanding they fulfill their commitment to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz. The US has made it clear that the relevant countries must submit specific escort plans within a few days to ensure the navigation of this globally critical strategic waterway.

It is reported that this demand was made during NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte's visit to Washington. Rutte held consultations with US President Trump, as well as officials from the Pentagon and the State Department. As of late Wednesday night local time, the White House and related departments had not yet made a formal response to this news.

As the world's most important energy artery, the Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of the world's oil and natural gas transportation. Previously, due to a direct conflict in the Middle East, the waterway was blockaded, leading to a surge in global energy prices and triggering deep panic over fuel shortages. Therefore, a 40-country alliance led by the UK, including Japan, Canada, and several European countries, had committed to assisting in reopening the waterway once the conflict subsided.

Currently, many top US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have sent a clear message to allies: member countries must take practical actions to prove their value to the US; otherwise, Washington will reassess bilateral relations. During the meeting with Rutte, Rubio particularly emphasized the necessity of "burden-sharing" and "enhanced cooperation."

The next few days will be crucial for the situation's development. It was revealed that US Vice President Pence plans to lead a delegation to Islamabad this Saturday for direct dialogue with the Iranian side. If allies fail to present specific escort plans before Pence's departure, the Trump administration may take more aggressive diplomatic measures. (Golden Finance)