Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump departed for the NATO summit on Monday, where he is expected to press alliance members to rapidly implement their commitment to increase defence spending to 5% of gross domestic product (GDP) over the next decade.
The summit marks the first major assessment of NATO members’ progress since last year’s agreement, with the Trump administration insisting allies move “with urgency” to meet the new spending target. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker said President Trump expects all member states to immediately begin implementing the pledge.
Why Is Defence Spending the Summit’s Central Focus?
Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO members for relying disproportionately on U.S. military spending. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has sought to highlight increased defence commitments by allies, presenting what he described as “The Trump Trillion” in additional defence spending pledged since 2017.
Analysts view the summit as a key test of whether European allies can satisfy Washington’s demands and preserve alliance unity.
Which Leaders Will Trump Meet?
On the sidelines of the summit, Trump is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
The meeting with Zelenskyy comes as the Russia–Ukraine war enters its fifth year, while discussions with al-Sharaa are expected to focus on regional security developments following Syria’s political transition.
What Broader Issues Will Dominate the Summit?
Beyond defence spending, leaders are expected to discuss continued support for Ukraine, regional security challenges, and NATO’s long-term strategic posture. The summit takes place amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing pressure on European allies to strengthen their military capabilities.