Thursday, February 16, 2017

MATTIS 'OPTIMISTIC' ABOUT NATO SPENDING

US Defence Secretary James Mattis says he's optimistic NATO allies will boost defence spending so Washington doesn't have to reduce support for the military alliance.

Mr Mattis had threatened the US could 'moderate' its NATO commitment unless allies honour military spending pledges.

But speaking at a NATO summit in Brussels, he says he's been reassured that fellow members are moving in the right direction.

And Secretary Mattis says NATO's principle of collective defence is not in doubt.

IN: "The commitment…
OUT: …optimistic."
DUR: 27 seconds


ALT:

Secretary Mattis says co-operation with Moscow will not be automatic after a change of administration in the White House.

IN: "Our political…
OUT: …itself first."
DUR: 15 seconds


ALT:

Secretary Mattis was asked whether additional US troops might be sent to Syria for the fight against the Islamic State - and he wouldn't rule it out.

IN: "I don't know…
OUT: …it yet."
DUR: 27 seconds