North Charleston, Feb. 15 -- Former President Donald Trump again said Wednesday that if he returns to the White House, he would not defend NATO members that don't meet defense spending targets, days after he set off alarms in Europe by suggesting he would tell Russia to attack NATO allies he considered delinquent.

Speaking at a campaign rally in South Carolina, he retold the story of his alleged conversation with the head of a NATO member country that had not met its obligations. This time, though, he left out the line that drew the most outrage - encouraging Russia "to do whatever the hell they want."

"Look, if they're not going to pay, we're not going to protect. OK?" he said Wednesday.

Trump hewed closer than usual to his prepared r...