NATO's Trump whisperer meets the president in an effort to appease him before next month's summit

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte sought to smooth tensions with President Donald Trump by emphasizing the value of the alliance, despite Trump's vocal criticism. This meeting comes amid a Pentagon review of the U.S. military presence in Europe, which adds complexity to the discussions. Rutte's efforts aim to reassure Trump and ensure the alliance's cohesion ahead of the upcoming summit, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong transatlantic ties amidst shifting military strategies. This diplomatic dance is crucial for sustaining collective security and preventing potential rifts within NATO.