President Trump Heads to NATO Summit in Turkey Amid Strained Alliance Relations

President Donald Trump is traveling to Turkey this week for the NATO summit, where leaders from North America and Europe will gather to discuss major global security issues and the future of the alliance.

The summit follows the United States' celebration of its 250th anniversary and comes amid continued questions about the U.S. relationship with NATO. Throughout his presidency, Trump has repeatedly urged NATO allies to increase defense spending and has questioned whether alliance members would come to America's defense if needed.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte recently met with President Trump at the White House in an effort to reinforce the alliance and encourage continued U.S. engagement.

Among the key topics expected at this week's summit are the latest U.S.-Iran peace negotiations, continued support for Ukraine as Russia's war continues, and broader European security concerns.

The meeting also comes after President Trump held a nearly 90-minute phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the weekend. Russian officials described the conversation as "businesslike" and "highly constructive," while the White House has not released additional details.

The summit is expected to provide an opportunity for allied leaders to address ongoing geopolitical challenges and reaffirm NATO's role in international security.