NATO members have agreed to raise defense spending to 5% of their collective GDP by 2035, marking a historic shift in the alliance's financial commitments. The decision, finalized at a summit in The Hague, allocates 3.5% of GDP to core defense and 1.5% to critical infrastructure and industrial capabilities, with a midterm review planned for 2029.
U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated the agreement as a "monumental win," emphasizing reduced U.S. burden-sharing. However, tensions flared over Spain's refusal to meet the full target, with Trump threatening trade repercussions. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez warned that overspending on defense could strain public budgets and delay investments in education and technology.
The declaration reaffirmed NATO's collective defense pledge amid Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, while urging European members to assume greater security responsibilities. Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed Europe would lead military aid to Kyiv, with U.S. support focusing on intelligence and air defense systems.
The move signals a recalibration of transatlantic security dynamics, balancing heightened spending with debates over economic priorities and regional autonomy.
