What happened at the NATO summit?
Asked 12 days ago
Answer
The NATO summit in The Hague was marked by a major new defense spending pledge, heightened tensions over the Middle East, and shifting priorities regarding Ukraine. Leaders agreed to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, with 3.5% for core defense and 1.5% for broader security. The summit was also dominated by discussions about the recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, the subsequent ceasefire, and differing views among leaders about the legality and effectiveness of these actions. There was also a notable shift in US policy, with less emphasis on Ukraine's NATO membership and more focus on broader alliance commitments.
References
President Trump closed the summit by praising US intervention in the Israel-Iran conflict and recent airstrikes on Iran, claiming Iran's nuclear program was destroyed. However, leaked intelligence suggested the strikes only delayed the program, and Trump promised to provide proof at a news conference.
President Trump was playfully called 'daddy' by Secretary General Mark Rutte, reflecting a new tone at the summit. Behind the praise, NATO members pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, and Trump affirmed the alliance’s core principle of collective defense.
NATO leaders endorsed a new defense spending target, aiming for member countries to allocate 5% of their economic output to defense, up from the previous 2% goal. The new target divides spending into 3.5% for core defense needs and 1.5% for broader security investments, with targets set for review in 2029 and expected to be met by 2035.
The summit saw a shift in US policy, with less emphasis on Ukraine's success as pivotal to NATO security. European leaders discussed increased defense spending and the need for negotiation and de-escalation in the Middle East, while continuing support for Ukraine was announced.
President Trump attended the summit after announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, which was quickly violated. He expressed frustration over the breakdown of the ceasefire and prepared to discuss next steps with world leaders.
Ukrainian President Zelensky accused Russia of supporting Iran’s nuclear program during summit discussions, which also focused on defense spending and the Middle East crisis. Bilateral talks between Zelensky and Trump were anticipated.
Leaders from 32 nations gathered for a summit described as the most significant since the Cold War, focusing on Europe, the US, and increased defense spending. The Middle East crisis, particularly US strikes in Iran, influenced discussions, with some leaders disagreeing on the legality of the actions.
NATO's 32 member states agreed to a new defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035, with 3.5% for hard defense and 1.5% for defense-related investments. The agreement was signed by ambassadors ahead of the summit, and the announcement sparked protests in The Hague.