NATO Summit: A Balancing Act Amidst U.S.-Iran Tensions

This week, the NATO summit in The Hague is set against a backdrop of escalating tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump's military strikes on Iran. The meeting aims to heed Trump's call for increased defense spending, now proposed at 5% of GDP, a significant rise from the current 2% target.

The summit also intends to project unity against Russian influence, despite new internal challenges. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has thrown a curveball by rejecting the new spending target, complicating NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's preparations. Rutte is adamant that every member, including Spain, cannot opt-out of these commitments.

With Ukraine's President relegated to a pre-summit dinner spot due to tense relations with Trump, and Europe's anxiety over potential U.S. troop cuts, the summit must navigate these complexities to avoid appearing weak at a critical geopolitical moment.

(With inputs from agencies.)