NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has called on member states to present clear and realistic plans to meet the alliance’s new defence spending targets, as leaders gather for a key summit in Ankara.
Speaking on Monday ahead of the two-day meeting in Türkiye’s capital, Rutte stressed that all 32 NATO members must show how they intend to reach the agreed goal of spending five percent of their gross domestic product on defence, according to Al Jazeera News. The target includes 3.5 percent for military budgets and 1.5 percent for infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and ports to improve military mobility.
The push comes at a sensitive moment for NATO. The United States has begun scaling back parts of its security role in Europe while urging allies to take on a greater share of responsibility. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized member states for not spending enough and has warned that support cannot be taken for granted.
While some countries have increased their defence budgets, others are still struggling to meet even the previous target of two percent of GDP. Spain, for example, has supported NATO’s broader security goals but argues it can meet its commitments without reaching the full five percent level.
Rutte acknowledged progress, noting that European allies and Canada are expected to increase defence spending by a combined $258 billion in 2025 compared to earlier years. Still, questions remain over whether this will satisfy Washington.
US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker reinforced the pressure, saying the Trump administration expects allies to move quickly and decisively. He hinted that consequences could follow for countries that fail to present credible plans, though he did not provide details.
Ahead of the summit, the Netherlands announced it would unveil defence investments worth more than three billion euros. The plans include joint projects with Belgium on air defence and with the United Kingdom on naval capabilities, as well as closer cooperation with Germany.
Despite uncertainty over Washington’s long-term commitment, European leaders continue to stress the importance of unity. As Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz put it, NATO members “need each other” at a time of growing global tension.
