"We refer you to the US authorities on this", a NATO press office representative said, when asked to comment on the remarks.
Speaking at a press conference with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on Tuesday, Trump suggested that Brazil would become a significant non-NATO ally or "maybe" an alliance member.
READ MORE: Prof: It's Highly Unlikely that Brazil Would Join Military Alliance Such as NATO
US National Security Adviser John Bolton later confirmed Brazil’s designation, stating that the bilateral cooperation between two countries will focus on Venezuela, Iran, and China.
Bolsonaro, who assumed office on 1 January, stressed at the press conference that Brazil and the United States would both uphold traditional family values and stand against fake news.