It is unacceptable for Germany, as the state with the largest economy in Europe, to ignore the threat of the Russian aggression and neglect its own self-defense and common defense of the allies in NATO

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence blamed Germany for the insufficient level of the expenses for the defense and Nord Stream 2 construction with Russia before the negotiations of 29 representatives of NATO states-members in Washington as AFP reported.

"Germany must do more. And we cannot ensure the defense of the West if our allies grow dependent on Russia," Pence said.

He emphasized that it is unacceptable for Germany, as the state with the largest economy in Europe, to ignore the threat of the Russian aggression and neglect its own self-defense and common defense of the allies in NATO.

Last month, Germany announced that it would reduce the expenses for defense by 1,25% in 2023.

Besides, Germany challenged the U.S. and few Eastern European states by the implementation of the Nord Stream 2 project along with Russia.

Pence emphasized that if Germany continues the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, it can

make Germany’s economy to be Russia’s hostage.

However, Pence promised that the U.S. “will always be the largest ally of Europe.”

As we reported, U.S. President Donald Trump wrote the letters to the leaders of several NATO allies – Germany, Belgium, Norway, and Canada – expressing his dissatisfy due to the failure to deliver their engagements to the alliance in the sphere of security.

Besides, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated that NATO member countries intend to increase the expenses on defense. By the end of the next year, this figure will grow by $100 billion.