NATO leaders dodge World Cup talk to keep Trump on side (onside) NATO leaders are reportedly steering clear of World Cup banter with Donald Trump as they seek to avoid unnecessary friction with the US president during a critical summit focused on the alliance's future. The informal strategy reflects growing concern among European capitals that personal tensions could overshadow high-stakes discussions on defence spending, military commitments and transatlantic unity. Diplomacy Before Football Officials said leaders discussed on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara the importance of keeping Trump engaged as allies push ahead with plans to strengthen Europe's contribution to the alliance. European governments have sought to reassure Washington that they are increasing defence investment, with members working towards spending 5% of GDP on defence by 2035. The aim is to demonstrate that Europe is taking greater responsibility for its own security. Belgium Keeps the Scoreline Quiet Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever openly acknowledged he would not raise Belgium's 4-1 World Cup victory over the United States unless Trump mentioned it first. De Wever joked that the US president has a reputation for reacting badly to setbacks and suggested the defeat could still be a sensitive subject. Belgian players had also mocked Trump's trademark dance celebration after scoring during the match, adding another layer of political awkwardness. Football Meets High Politics The summit follows controversy after Trump reportedly asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review a red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun, hoping he could return for the match against Belgium. Trump has not publicly commented on the American team's elimination, but European leaders appear unwilling to risk turning football into a diplomatic distraction while NATO faces pressing security challenges. Unity Takes Priority Away from the delicate balancing act with Trump, leaders continued to mix politics with sporting humour. Prime Minister Keir Starmer joked to Norway's Jonas Gahr Støre that England only wins the World Cup under Labour governments as the pair met wearing their national team shirts. Despite the light-hearted exchanges, the overriding message from Ankara was one of caution. With defence, Ukraine and alliance cohesion dominating the agenda, few leaders appear willing to let football derail a summit carrying far greater geopolitical stakes. NATO leaders agree not to mention World Cup to Donald Trump to avoid irritating him
