Trump Threatens To Stop Ukraine Arms Supply To Pressure Europe Over Strait Of Hormuz: Report

Last Updated:April 02, 2026, 01:37 IST

The move comes as tensions rise over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint effectively closed by Iran following US and Israeli strikes.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to stop weapons supplies for Ukraine in a bid to pressure European allies into joining a US-led effort to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by the Financial Times.

Citing officials familiar with the matter, the news outlet said that the US President warned that he could cut support to NATO’s Ukraine weapons procurement initiative if allies refused to join what he described as a “coalition of the willing" to secure the key oil transit route.

The move comes as tensions rise over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint effectively closed by Iran following US and Israeli strikes. Trump has been pushing NATO navies to help reopen the waterway, but several European capitals pushed back, arguing the conflict was “not our war."

According to officials, Trump’s warning triggered urgent diplomatic efforts within NATO. Secretary-General Mark Rutte led discussions with key members including France, Germany and the UK, resulting in a joint statement expressing readiness to support efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait.

“It was Rutte who insisted on the joint statement because Trump had threatened to withdraw from Ukraine in general," one official told the Financial Times, highlighting the pressure on European allies.

Officials said Rutte held multiple calls with Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ease tensions and coordinate a response. The statement, issued on March 19, was seen as an attempt to balance European caution with US pressure.

Trump has repeatedly voiced frustration with NATO allies, accusing them of failing to support US priorities while benefiting from American security commitments. He has also indicated he could consider reducing US involvement in NATO, adding to concerns among European governments.

While US officials said military supplies to Ukraine have not yet been affected, they did not rule out potential changes if tensions escalate further. The situation highlights growing strains within the alliance as the US seeks broader support for its strategy in the Middle East while continuing to back Ukraine in its war against Russia.

News world Trump Threatens To Stop Ukraine Arms Supply To Pressure Europe Over Strait Of Hormuz: Report

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