German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Monday that any relativization of NATO’s mutual defense clause is “dangerous” and only serves Russia, following comments by former US President Donald Trump questioning the alliance’s fundamental provision.

Trump, who is seeking re-election, sparked outrage among Western partners over the weekend after suggesting the United States might not protect NATO allies who are not spending enough on defense against a possible Russian invasion.

“Any relativization of the NATO assistance guarantee is irresponsible and dangerous,” Scholz told reporters during a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. “This is in Russia’s exclusive interest. No one should play or negotiate with Europe’s security.”

Germany will meet the NATO target of spending 2% of economic output on defense this year — and will continue to meet it in the years to come, Scholz said.

By Alan Charlish, Sarah Marsh, John Irish