NATO Allies Support Increased Defense Spending Ahead of Summit
Brussels—Most NATO allies have rallied behind U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for a significant increase in defense spending, with many prepared to meet the proposed goal of allocating 5% of their GDP toward military budgets. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in achieving this ambitious target before the organization’s upcoming summit in The Hague on June 24-25.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year, European nations and Canada have proactively bolstered their military capabilities. However, the push for a 5% investment, comprising 3.5% on core military needs and an additional 1.5% for military infrastructure, has faced resistance. In 2023, NATO leaders had agreed in principle to commit at least 2% of their GDP to defense, a goal that 22 out of 32 member countries are currently on track to meet.
The proposed 5% target comes as the U.S. seeks to shift focus to security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring that European allies adequately contribute to their own defense. Notably, the U.S. still spends significantly more than its allies, with projected GDP defense expenditure of 3.19%, a decrease from 3.68% a decade ago.
During recent discussions, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted the mutual recognition among European allies of the need for increased defense capabilities and thanked Trump for revitalizing NATO. This increased spending is deemed essential, especially if U.S. troop levels in Europe are adjusted.
NATO is also implementing new "capability targets," outlining essential military equipment each of the 32 nations must acquire, including air defense systems and long-range missiles. With enhanced plans, the alliance aims to ensure that up to 300,000 troops can be mobilized to the eastern front within 30 days, although achieving this goal remains a challenge.
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