Donald Trump must show 'strength' against Russia before 'beginning of the end', warns former Nato head
Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who was in charge of the US-led alliance from 2009 to 2014, says Vladimir Putin 'only respects a firm hand'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The former Secretary-General of Nato has urged Donald Trump to act against Russian aggression or face “the beginning of the end” of the US-led system.
Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who was in charge of the alliance from 2009 to 2014, said Vladimir Putin “only respects a firm hand” and therefore Mr Trump must show “strength”.
The advice came in an email sent through his firm, Rasmussen Global, which provides geopolitical and strategic consulting services.
“Neglecting [the Baltic States] will have far-reaching consequences and mark the beginning of the end of the US-led system,” Mr Rasmussen said in the email, the Daily Mail reported.
“As Commander-in-Chief, Donald Trump must display strength towards Russia. Putin only respects a firm and steady hand."
Mr Rasmussen also suggested the US protect Ukraine from any future Russian aggression and impose a no-fly zone over Syria.
“The US must increase support for Nato's eastern flank, set up military bases wherever Russia is threatening the freedom and livelihood of US allies, and whole-heartedly protect Ukraine against future Russian aggression,” he wrote.
“The US President must initiate a no-fly zone to impose and maintain a credible and durable ceasefire in Syria. The US must force the President of Syria, Bashar al-Assad, to the negotiating table and find a political solution to the devastating conflict.”
The former Prime Minister of Denmark, Mr Rasmussen, is currently working as an adviser to the Ukrainian president.
Mr Rasmussen's words came just after the current chief of Nato called on Mr Trump to clarify his position on the intergovernmental military alliance.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments