NATO leaders have made a discreet decision to steer clear of discussing the ongoing football World Cup with US President Donald Trump at their summit in Ankara. This calculated move is driven by concerns that mentioning the tournament, particularly the US team's disappointing defeat, could provoke an irritated response from the American leader at a critical juncture for the alliance.
The decision to keep discussions focused on defence spending and cooperation reflects growing anxiety among European nations about President Trump's stance on NATO's future. Diplomats have been working to reassure him of their commitment to the alliance, with each member aiming to allocate 5% of their GDP towards defence by 2035.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has openly acknowledged this strategy, stating that he would not raise his country's 4-1 victory over the US during talks with President Trump. He jokingly suggested that the defeat would "hit hard", given the American leader's reputation for reacting irritably to setbacks.
The summit takes place against a backdrop of controversy surrounding President Trump's earlier request to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review a red card issued to US striker Folarin Balogun. The Belgian national team was also accused of taunting President Trump by mimicking his signature dance move after scoring their fourth goal.
Meanwhile, domestic politics have not been immune to World Cup-themed jibes. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly poked fun at Norwegian counterpart Jonas Gahr Støre ahead of England's quarter-final match against Norway on Saturday, quipping that England only win the World Cup under Labour governments – a lighthearted exchange between the two leaders.