Trump's NATO comments aren't cause for panic — but they should be taken seriously, experts warn

There was a «keep calm and carry on» vibe outside the House of Commons on Monday as a political storm blew up over Donald Trump's threat to encourage Russia «to do whatever the hell they want» to NATO members he thinks aren't paying their fair share of the cost of collective defence.

Despite harsh condemnation of the Republican presidential frontrunner's remarks from allies in Europe, and strong words from the NATO secretary general, two federal cabinet ministers in Ottawa took a more measured, restrained approach to what they'd heard.

One expert was pleasantly surprised with the understated nature of the responses from Defence Minister Bill Blair and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly — but others warned there can be no room for complacency and said important security arrangements beyond NATO could be thrown into chaos if Trump returns to the Oval Office.

«I'm not going to get drawn into political rhetoric in another country,» Blair told reporters Monday when asked about the former president's campaign speech last weekend.

«I don't think we need to overreact, but I think we need to make sure that we are prepared and that we continue to keep our alliances strong.»

Trump, who is running for re-election in November, said during a weekend campaign event that he would encourage Russia to do «whatever the hell they want» to any NATO member country that doesn't meet spending guidelines. He said he would not offer such a country U.S. protection.

Blair said his responsibility is to the defence of Canada. He cited the billions of dollars the Liberal government has committed recently to buying new fighter jets, drones and surveillance aircraft.

Joly focused on NATO solidarity, claiming the military alliance is «more united than ever»