Former MI6 intelligence chief: Trump is a 'political threat' to Britain
(Baonghean.vn) - Former intelligence official Richard Dearlove said that the return of the 45th US President could be a disaster for NATO.
Former MI6 chief Richard Dearlove has warned that the possibility of former US President Donald Trump's re-election could be "troublesome" for Britain's national security due to his stance on NATO.
Richard Dearlove, who headed MI6 from 1999 to 2004, discussed potential threats to the UK in 2024 in an interview with Sky News on January 14. He mentioned the Russia-Ukraine conflict and “the long-term behaviour of China” before turning to the US presidential race.
“I have to add a political threat, which I am worried about, is the re-election of Mr Trump… which I think is very troubling for UK national security,” Mr Dearlove said. He explained that if Mr Trump, in his criticism of NATO, “acts hastily and damages the Atlantic alliance, that is a big problem for the UK.”
“On the defense side, we have put all our eggs in the NATO basket. If Trump is really serious about changing the balance as before, then in my view, the American nuclear umbrella for Europe is essential for European security and defense,” the former intelligence director said.
During his time in the White House, Mr. Trump has criticized NATO, calling it “obsolete” and questioning its necessity in the modern world. He has also questioned Washington’s commitment to defending its allies and said other NATO members are not paying enough.
“Look, NATO took advantage of our country. The European countries took advantage,” the former US president recently told Fox News, adding that his attitude toward NATO depends on whether “they treat us right.”
Despite facing several lawsuits, Mr. Trump remains the frontrunner in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. A recent Morning Consult poll showed him leading with 69% support, while his closest rival is far behind.
