Following the NATO summit, U.S. President Donald Trump returned home to a unique welcome. The White House’s official X account released a spirited video montage, featuring Usher’s 2010 hit "Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home)" from his album Raymond v Raymond.
During a subsequent press interaction, a reporter brought attention to remarks made by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who had affectionately referred to Trump as "Daddy." The reporter inquired whether Trump perceived his NATO allies in a paternal light. In response, Trump remarked, "No, he likes me. I think he likes me. If he doesn’t, I’ll let you know. I’ll come back and I’ll hit him hard, OK? He did, he did it very affectionately, Daddy, you’re my daddy."
Rutte later clarified his comments, indicating that he viewed Trump’s role in relation to Europe as akin to that of a father figure. He explained that he often hears concerns from European nations about America’s commitment to NATO, which he likened to a child asking a parent, "Hey, are you still staying with the family?"
Trump’s playful engagement with the media and Rutte’s analogy highlighted the unique dynamics at play in international relations, revealing both camaraderie and the underlying anxieties among European allies regarding U.S. support.