President threatens alliance’s future after Germany, France, UK, Japan refuse to send ships; Washington now turns to Beijing for assistance reopening strategic strait.
President Donald Trump finds himself increasingly isolated as NATO allies flatly reject his calls for naval support to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, forcing Washington to seek assistance from unexpected quarters—including Iran’s closest partner, China. The strategic waterway, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, has remained effectively closed since Feb. 28 following the outbreak of war with Iran.
Trump’s threats of a “very bad future” for NATO have fallen on deaf ears as European capitals firmly decline involvement. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius delivered the sharpest rebuke, questioning why European frigates should accomplish what the powerful US Navy cannot.
“This is not our war and we did not start it,” Pistorius stated. Chancellor Friedrich Merz reinforced the position, seeing “no reason” to consider military protection of shipping lanes.
Britain’s Keir Starmer, France, Spain, Italy and Belgium have all ruled out participation, while Japan, Australia and South Korea also declined Washington’s requests. Even Israel, America’s co-belligerent against Iran, was notably absent from Trump’s list of requested contributors, raising speculation that Washington aims to put NATO forces on the line for Israeli interests.
China approached for assistance
In a striking development revealing Washington’s limited options, Trump disclosed that his administration has approached seven countries for help—including China, which receives the vast majority of its imported oil via the Hormuz route. “I think China should also help because China gets 90% of its oil through this strait,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. The outreach to Beijing comes despite escalating US-China trade tensions and represents a remarkable reversal, with Washington now soliciting support from Tehran’s strategic partner.
Behind Trump’s public demands, serious obstacles complicate any military solution. US military commanders have reportedly warned the president that Iran could transform the region into a “death box” using drones and anti-ship missiles.
More than 600 tankers remain stranded in the Gulf, and even with naval escort, insurers and ship owners require guarantees no military force can provide.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon has positioned 5,000 Marines for possible operations, with speculation they could target Iran’s Kharg Island, through which 90% of Iranian oil exports flow.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledged that Washington is now permitting Iranian tankers to transit, suggesting quiet accommodation where military pressure has failed.
Trump asks Venezuela if it wants to become 51st state
US President Donald Trump suggested in a social media post that Venezuela could become America’s 51st state, following the country’s baseball victory over Italy.
The remark, made on his platform, linked Caracas’ recent sports success to a provocative question about statehood. Trump’s statement adds a new layer to already tense relations between Washington and the Latin American nation.
US President Donald Trump has stirred controversy by proposing Venezuela’s potential annexation as the 51st state of the United States. In a post on his social media platform, Trump first congratulated the Venezuelan baseball team for defeating Italy 4-2 in the World Baseball Classic semifinals.
He then pivoted to a suggestive comment, writing, “Good things are happening in Venezuela lately. I wonder what this magic is all about. Is there anyone who wants to become the 51st state?” The unexpected remark has drawn sharp reactions from political circles in both Washington and Caracas.
Trump’s comment comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations, though his administration has previously shown interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves and political landscape.
The “51st state” reference is often used jokingly by Americans regarding neighboring countries, but Trump’s phrasing has reignited debate over US interventionist tendencies in Latin America. Critics argue such statements undermine Venezuela’s sovereignty, while supporters may view it as a nod to closer cooperation.
The Venezuelan government has yet to issue an official response, but the remark is likely to fuel further friction with the US-backed opposition in the country. Analysts suggest Trump’s comment may also resonate with domestic audiences, tapping into nationalist sentiments ahead of upcoming elections. Meanwhile, international observers, including in Türkiye, are closely monitoring how such rhetoric could impact regional stability. Ankara has consistently emphasized respect for national sovereignty in its foreign policy, a principle that contrasts with Trump’s casual annexation proposal.
