**The Hague summit marked a significant commitment by NATO allies in response to global threats, while Trump emphasizes triumph for the alliance.**
**Trump Celebrates Historic NATO Defence Spending Agreement**
**Trump Celebrates Historic NATO Defence Spending Agreement**
**Leaders Pledge 5% By 2035 Amid Heightened Security Concerns**
In a landmark development, NATO leaders have pledged to increase defence spending to 5% of their countries' economic output by 2035, a decision heavily influenced by pressures from U.S. President Donald Trump. Calling it a "big win for Europe and... Western civilization," Trump hailed the outcome of the summit held in The Hague, framing it as a vital step in tackling "profound" security challenges, notably the "long-term threat posed by Russia" and global terrorism.
During the summit, NATO members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to collective defence, underscoring that an attack on one member would invoke a response from the entire alliance. However, the joint statement notably avoided a direct condemnation of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which had featured prominently in previous communications.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte proclaimed, "No one should doubt our capacity or determination should our security be challenged," emphasizing the unity and strength of the alliance. Despite expressing earlier concerns about the defence guarantee, Trump swiftly reassured attendees regarding his support for NATO's Article Five, strengthening the alliance's commitment.
Described as historic by several leaders, the summit's discussions included ongoing military support for Ukraine alongside calls for peace negotiations. The agreement to escalate defence spending entails a minimum of 3.5% of GDP dedicated to core defence by 2035, along with additional investments linked to security.
Trump, who attended his first NATO summit since 2019, described the spending hike as a victory for all members, suggesting it would level the playing field across the alliance. In particular, Spain had contested the 5% target advance; however, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ultimately endorsed the statement, reconsidering his nation’s financial capacity amidst the heightened demands.
Belgium and Slovakia had expressed reservations, yet their leaders signified a willingness to work toward the newly established goal. This development has ignited debate among European nations regarding the feasibility of the ambitious spending plan, highlighting disparities in defence efforts within the alliance.
French President Emmanuel Macron voiced criticism of the U.S.’s trade tariffs on the EU, advocating for cooperation rather than conflict among allies. The summit, which commenced with a dinner hosted by the Dutch royals, was tailored to reflect the urgency of NATO's present circumstances, reinforcing the message that the alliance is more unified and prepared than ever.
In a candid discussion with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump acknowledged the complexities of achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine and hinted at potential additional military support. The final communique from NATO emphasized the alliance’s dedication to Ukraine, confirming that aid directed to Kyiv's defence initiatives would be factored into national spending evaluations.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer underlined NATO's ongoing relevance, citing the need for collective strength in a tumultuous global landscape and showcasing the alliance's enhanced capabilities in light of increased unity among member nations.
During the summit, NATO members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to collective defence, underscoring that an attack on one member would invoke a response from the entire alliance. However, the joint statement notably avoided a direct condemnation of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which had featured prominently in previous communications.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte proclaimed, "No one should doubt our capacity or determination should our security be challenged," emphasizing the unity and strength of the alliance. Despite expressing earlier concerns about the defence guarantee, Trump swiftly reassured attendees regarding his support for NATO's Article Five, strengthening the alliance's commitment.
Described as historic by several leaders, the summit's discussions included ongoing military support for Ukraine alongside calls for peace negotiations. The agreement to escalate defence spending entails a minimum of 3.5% of GDP dedicated to core defence by 2035, along with additional investments linked to security.
Trump, who attended his first NATO summit since 2019, described the spending hike as a victory for all members, suggesting it would level the playing field across the alliance. In particular, Spain had contested the 5% target advance; however, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ultimately endorsed the statement, reconsidering his nation’s financial capacity amidst the heightened demands.
Belgium and Slovakia had expressed reservations, yet their leaders signified a willingness to work toward the newly established goal. This development has ignited debate among European nations regarding the feasibility of the ambitious spending plan, highlighting disparities in defence efforts within the alliance.
French President Emmanuel Macron voiced criticism of the U.S.’s trade tariffs on the EU, advocating for cooperation rather than conflict among allies. The summit, which commenced with a dinner hosted by the Dutch royals, was tailored to reflect the urgency of NATO's present circumstances, reinforcing the message that the alliance is more unified and prepared than ever.
In a candid discussion with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump acknowledged the complexities of achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine and hinted at potential additional military support. The final communique from NATO emphasized the alliance’s dedication to Ukraine, confirming that aid directed to Kyiv's defence initiatives would be factored into national spending evaluations.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer underlined NATO's ongoing relevance, citing the need for collective strength in a tumultuous global landscape and showcasing the alliance's enhanced capabilities in light of increased unity among member nations.
