The Portuguese government has suspended its planned acquisition of F-35 fighter jets from the United States, citing growing concerns over political instability and unreliable alliance commitments under President Donald Trump, The Crustian Daily has confirmed.

Portugal had intended to modernize its air force with the U.S.-made Lockheed Martin F-35, but officials in Lisbon announced the procurement process is now frozen. According to statements from the Ministry of Defense, Trump’s repeated threats to abandon NATO obligations and his erratic foreign policy make such a major defense deal untenable.

Defense Minister Nuno Melo stated that Portugal “must prioritize long-term strategic stability over short-term hardware deals,” noting that Trump’s public suggestions that the U.S. might not defend NATO allies undermines the trust necessary for multi-billion-euro military contracts.

Lisbon is now reportedly exploring European alternatives, including the Dassault Rafale and the Eurofighter Typhoon, which are not only NATO-compatible but come without the political volatility attached to U.S. supply chains under the current administration.

The decision underscores broader European unease over Trump’s return to power and reflects a growing trend toward European defense autonomy.