Exit of trusted Jim Mattis sparks concern among US allies
Mattis has been seen in Europe, and by other allies, as firmly committed to Nato, unlike his soon-to-be former boss, Donald Trump
Brussels — Key allies of Washington expressed concern on Friday about the resignation of US defence secretary Jim Mattis and the policies of US President Donald Trump that prompted it, praising Mattis as a committed partner. Mattis said on Thursday that he would quit after falling out with Trump over the latter’s foreign policies, including the surprise decision to pull troops out of Syria and plans for a drawdown in Afghanistan. “Secretary Mattis has made a key contribution to keeping Nato strong and ready to deal with the significant security challenges we face,” Nato spokesperson Oana Lungescu said. “He is widely respected as a soldier and a diplomat.” Mattis has been seen in Europe as firmly committed to Nato, unlike his soon-to-be former boss. Trump has warned European allies that the US could withdraw its support unless they boost defence spending. “We are grateful for the iron-clad commitment of the US to Nato. US leadership keeps our transatlantic alliance strong,” Lungescu ...
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