NATO Allies Face Pressure to Boost Defense Spending Amid Trump's 5% GDP Demand
NATO defense ministers are set to convene in Brussels to address increasing defense spending in line with U.S. President Donald Trump's demand for allies to boost investment to 5% of GDP. With the NATO summit approaching, negotiations continue on the new defense investment plan proposed by Mark Rutte.
NATO defense ministers will meet in Brussels to deliberate on boosting defense expenditures, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's expectation for NATO allies to invest 5% of their GDP in defense. The discussions occur before a crucial NATO summit scheduled in The Hague.
Currently, NATO members are committed to a 2% GDP defense spending target. However, the alliance recognizes the importance of increasing this investment to retain U.S. support in Europe. Secretary-General Mark Rutte suggests a new plan, advocating a 3.5% GDP defense investment along with 1.5% in broader security.
As diplomats negotiate the specifics of this investment plan, disagreements persist about the timeline to achieve the 5% target, with countries like Lithuania urging for a 2030 deadline. The definition of 'defense-related' spending under the new proposal also remains a subject of debate.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News