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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Pippa Crerar Political editor in Ankara

Nato leaders agree not to mention World Cup to Donald Trump to avoid irritating him

Donald Trump, wearing a 'Trump was right about everything' baseball cap, holds the World Cup trophy in the Oval Office.
The US president, Donald Trump, may be feeling sore after his national team’s defeat by Belgium. Pictured holding the World Cup trophy last year. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Nato leaders have informally agreed not to mention the football World Cup to Donald Trump for fear of irritating the US president at a crucial time for the military alliance.

Officials said European leaders had discussed in the sidelines of the summit in Ankara how to keep Trump on side amid concerns he could further destabilise Nato with threats over defence spending.

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