In a bold move, NATO members agreed to ramp up defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. The new plan allocates 3.5% for core defense and 1.5% for essential areas like infrastructure, networks, and defense industrial capabilities.
At a high-level summit in The Hague, the agreement was hailed as an "epic win" by U.S. President Donald Trump, who pointed out that the United States has long shouldered more than its fair share of the alliance's defense responsibilities. 🇺🇸
However, voices like Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez have cautioned that rushing to a 5% target could spur rising prices and divert investment from sectors such as education and digital development. Trump even singled out Spain, stressing the need for greater accountability.
The final declaration also reaffirmed NATO's collective defense promise—an attack on one is an attack on all—underscoring the alliance's united stand, especially as it bolsters support for Ukraine. The U.S. also encouraged European allies to take on more responsibility for their own security, even as Washington continues to share intelligence and provide practical military backing.
The spending strategy will be reviewed in 2029 to ensure it meets emerging strategic needs, marking a forward-thinking step in an evolving global defense landscape. 🌍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
