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Nato leaders avoid mentioning World Cup to Donald Trump to prevent tantrum

Published July 8, 2026 at 1:16 PM UTC

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In the lead-up to the Nato summit in Ankara, leaders have been advised to avoid discussing the World Cup with US President Donald Trump to prevent potential outbursts. The summit, scheduled for July 8-9, 2026, comes at a delicate time for the alliance, with tensions over defence spending and the US's recent military actions in Iran. President Trump has previously expressed dissatisfaction with Nato members' defence contributions, leading to concerns about the summit's atmosphere. To maintain a productive environment, officials have recommended steering clear of topics that might provoke the president, including the World Cup. This approach aims to ensure a focused and cooperative summit, avoiding any distractions that could derail critical discussions on alliance unity and defence commitments. The decision underscores the delicate balance Nato leaders must maintain in addressing pressing security issues while managing the unpredictable nature of President Trump's reactions.