Trump renews criticism of NATO allies over Iran war support

WASHINGTON, June 24 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday renewed criticism of NATO allies over their stance during the war with Iran, saying he expects "loyalty" from European partners.

Trump made the remarks during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the Oval Office, where he again complained that European allies had not done enough to support Washington during the conflict.

"I just want their loyalty," Trump told reporters.

"They (NATO allies) weren't too nice to us in our recent little military skirmish," he added.

Rutte sought to downplay the differences between Europe and Washington over the Iran war, noting that U.S. warplanes had taken off from bases across Europe during the conflict.

Trump also said he decided to attend next month's NATO summit in Ankara only "out of respect" for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.