Logo

NATO Pledges 5% GDP Defense Spending by 2035 Amid US Pressure

NATO leaders have agreed to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, reaffirming their commitment to mutual defense under Article 5. The UK pledged significant military aid to Ukraine, while some members expressed reservations. The summit also featured tensions over intelligence leaks and underscored a shift towards stronger burden-sharing within the alliance.

NATO Pledges 5% GDP Defense Spending by 2035 Amid US Pressure

NATO Commits to Significant Defense Investment by 2035

In a landmark decision influenced by sustained pressure from the United States, NATO leaders have agreed to boost their defense budgets to 5% of GDP annually by 2035. This commitment underscores the alliance’s resolve in strengthening its military capabilities amidst evolving global security challenges.

Reaffirming Collective Defense Despite Uncertainty

The 32 NATO member countries reaffirmed their "ironclad commitment" to collective defense under Article 5 of the NATO treaty, which states an attack on one member is an attack on all. However, the summit faced turbulence early on when the US President introduced ambiguity about his support, causing concern among allies.

Though initially casting doubt on what defines Article 5, the US President later clarified his stance, asserting his unwavering support for the principle during bilateral discussions. Nevertheless, his earlier remarks left some in the alliance uneasy as they strive to present a unified front.

Midpoint Review to Adjust Strategy

The alliance’s joint statement includes a planned review in 2029 to measure progress toward the spending goal and adapt strategies based on the threat landscape, with particular attention to Russia’s actions.

UK Enhances Military Support to Ukraine and NATO

British Prime Minister took a major step by pledging delivery of 350 air-defense missiles to Ukraine, funded through seized Russian assets amounting to £70 million ($95 million). Additionally, the UK announced plans to acquire 12 F-35 fighter jets from the United States, marking the most substantial nuclear capability upgrade in decades and reinforcing NATO’s shared airborne nuclear mission.

The NATO Secretary-General welcomed the UK's commitments as substantial contributions to alliance security and burden-sharing.

Finland Calls it ‘A New NATO’

Finland’s President described the summit as birthing a "new NATO", highlighting the alliance's shift toward greater burden-sharing and robust deterrence. Several Eastern European countries pledged support for the new 5% defense spending target, though some members, like Spain, expressed reservations, drawing criticism from the US President.

Mixed Reactions Within the Alliance

  • Spain voiced its inability to meet the 5% spending goal, prompting frustration from the US President who labeled this stance as unfair to other allies.
  • Hungary’s Prime Minister downplayed Russia’s threat level, diverging from the general consensus and reflecting closer ties with Russia.

Summit Disruptions and Diplomatic Highlights

During the summit in The Hague, an unexpected mobile network outage affected communications across the host country. Although no cyberattack was officially confirmed, Dutch cybersecurity agencies remain vigilant.

On a lighter note, the US President enjoyed royal hospitality, staying at Huis Ten Bosch palace and sharing warmly about a breakfast meeting with the Dutch King and Queen, which underscored the strong diplomatic ties between member states.

Media Tensions Over Iran Intelligence Leak

The summit atmosphere was further charged by the US President’s criticism of the media over leaked intelligence about US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear program. He accused the press of unfairness towards military personnel involved. To support the claim of success, the US administration released a statement from Israel’s Atomic Energy Commission, claiming the combined operations delayed Iran’s program by many years.

A Call for Unity and Fair Burden Sharing

NATO’s Secretary-General opened the summit emphasizing a new era of fairness in defense spending. "For too long, one ally—specifically the United States—has carried too much of the burden," he stated firmly. This summit marked the largest security operation ever held in the Netherlands, underscoring NATO’s commitment to solidarity amid pressing security threats worldwide.

France Invests $1.7 Billion to Modernize Luxeuil Nuclear Air Base
France Invests $1.7 Billion to Modernize Luxeuil Nuclear Air Base

France is undertaking a $1.7 billion project to upgrade its Luxeuil-Saint Sauveur air base, enabling it to host advanced Rafale fighter jets and hypersonic nuclear missiles by 2035. The base will undergo extensive infrastructure modernization, including new hangars and extended runways, expanding personnel and enhancing security. Positioned near key European borders, Luxeuil’s upgrade reflects growing security concerns amid the Ukraine conflict, with France open to discussing nuclear deployments with European allies.

US Defense Chief Warns of Imminent China Threat at Singapore Security Forum
US Defense Chief Warns of Imminent China Threat at Singapore Security Forum

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore warned that China is preparing to use military force to shift the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. Emphasizing China's ambitions to dominate Asia and possible invasion plans for Taiwan, he urged US allies in the region to increase their defense budgets significantly to strengthen deterrence.

US Defense Chief Warns of Imminent China Threat, Urges Asian Allies to Boost Defense Spending
US Defense Chief Warns of Imminent China Threat, Urges Asian Allies to Boost Defense Spending

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a strong warning at the Shangri-La Dialogue summit about the growing threat from China, particularly concerning potential military action against Taiwan. He encouraged Indo-Pacific nations to increase their defense budgets, noting that regional spending remains low compared to European commitments. China dismissed the warnings as provocative, highlighting ongoing tensions. Hegseth also emphasized the need for US allies to take greater responsibility for their own security while respecting regional sovereignty and traditions.

Defense Expert Warns US Vulnerable After Ukraine's Drone Attack on Russian Bombers
Defense Expert Warns US Vulnerable After Ukraine's Drone Attack on Russian Bombers

After Ukraine’s drone strike destroyed nearly a third of Russia’s nuclear-capable long-range bombers, defense expert Tyler Rogoway warns the US faces similar risks. Highlighting insufficient hardened shelters and growing drone threats, Rogoway calls for urgent measures to protect US aircraft and critical military infrastructure from modern aerial attacks and intelligence-gathering drones.

NATO to Approve Major Military Purchases in Defense Spending Boost
NATO to Approve Major Military Purchases in Defense Spending Boost

NATO is set to approve plans for significant military purchases, including air defense systems and logistics support, to strengthen defense of Europe, the Arctic, and the North Atlantic. This initiative follows a major 2023 overhaul aiming to maintain rapid troop deployment and enhance combat readiness across the alliance’s 32 member states.

Israel Intercepts Yemen-Launched Missile Amid Rising Houthi Threats
Israel Intercepts Yemen-Launched Missile Amid Rising Houthi Threats

The Israeli military intercepted a missile fired from Yemen by the Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been targeting Israel and maritime traffic in solidarity with Gaza. Israel has warned of a naval and air blockade if attacks persist, while retaliatory strikes continue amid ongoing regional tensions.

US Reviews AUKUS Submarine Pact; Australia Stays Confident Amid Scrutiny
US Reviews AUKUS Submarine Pact; Australia Stays Confident Amid Scrutiny

The United States has started a formal review of the trilateral AUKUS security pact focused on sharing nuclear-powered submarine technology with Australia and the UK. Despite scrutiny led by Pentagon officials over production rates and defense spending, Australia assures the agreement remains vital for regional security. The pact, valued at US$239 billion over 30 years, aims to strengthen defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific amid rising global tensions.

Israel Seeks US’ 14-Ton Bunker Buster to Target Iran’s Nuclear Sites
Israel Seeks US’ 14-Ton Bunker Buster to Target Iran’s Nuclear Sites

In a bid to tackle Iran's deeply buried nuclear facilities, Israel is pursuing the US Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) – a powerful 14-ton bomb designed to pierce through 200 feet of reinforced concrete and rock. Deployed only by stealth bombers, the MOP’s precision and destructive force make it a critical asset in Israel’s strategic arsenal amid rising tensions.

German Chancellor Merz Meets Trump Amid Ukraine and Trade Tensions
German Chancellor Merz Meets Trump Amid Ukraine and Trade Tensions

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will meet Donald Trump in the Oval Office against a backdrop of discord over Ukraine policy, trade tariffs, and Germany’s political landscape. Their discussion will cover NATO commitments, German car exports, and concerns about rising far-right influence. Despite potential friction, both leaders share common interests including defense spending and migration controls, offering a chance to improve transatlantic relations.

NATO Faces Crucial Moment on Defense Spending Hike at Summit
NATO Faces Crucial Moment on Defense Spending Hike at Summit

At a high-stakes NATO summit, 32 member countries are set to decide on raising collective defense spending from 2% to 5% of GDP by 2035. While some nations like Poland and Estonia support the move, others including Spain and Italy express skepticism. The alliance faces pressure to strengthen unity and address security threats, with the US emphasizing fair contributions from all members.

NATO Raises Defense Spending Target to 5% of GDP by 2035
NATO Raises Defense Spending Target to 5% of GDP by 2035

In a pivotal move, NATO members have agreed to increase defense budgets to 5% of GDP by 2035, more than doubling the previous 2% target. This commitment comes as a response to persistent threats from Russia and terrorism, reaffirming the alliance's dedication to collective defense under Article 5 while encouraging innovation and resilience within member states.

NATO Commits to 5% Defense Spending Target: What It Means for Members
NATO Commits to 5% Defense Spending Target: What It Means for Members

During the recent NATO summit, member countries agreed to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, balancing core military investments with infrastructure and cybersecurity spending. This move addresses security challenges by strengthening military capabilities, improving logistics, and ensuring accountability through annual progress reports and a 2029 review.

US Republican Bill Proposes Withdrawal from NATO Amid Defense Spending Debate
US Republican Bill Proposes Withdrawal from NATO Amid Defense Spending Debate

Senator Mike Lee's proposed 'Not A Trusted Organization (NATO) Act' calls for the U.S. to exit NATO, citing unfair burden-sharing among member nations. The bill faces bipartisan resistance due to past legislative protections of NATO membership. Meanwhile, at a recent summit, NATO members agreed to increase defense spending, with President Trump expressing support for NATO's collective defense clause. The evolving debate highlights ongoing tensions over America's global military commitments and transatlantic security.

NATO Summit Reaffirms U.S. Commitment Amid Defense Spending Pledges
NATO Summit Reaffirms U.S. Commitment Amid Defense Spending Pledges

At the NATO summit in The Hague, the alliance's chief confirmed the U.S.'s full commitment to NATO despite past doubts. Members agreed to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 to address disparities, with President Trump attending the event. European allies like Spain face pressure to meet spending obligations amid ongoing security threats.

German Chancellor Merz’s Washington Visit Seen as Diplomatic Success Amid US Political Drama
German Chancellor Merz’s Washington Visit Seen as Diplomatic Success Amid US Political Drama

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. focused on strengthening bilateral relations, discussing tariffs, Ukraine conflict support, and NATO defense spending. Despite being overshadowed by Trump-Musk drama, Merz’s visit is viewed positively, with both leaders showing openness to future cooperation.

Trump Suggests Letting Ukraine and Russia 'Fight for a While' Before Peace
Trump Suggests Letting Ukraine and Russia 'Fight for a While' Before Peace

During a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Donald Trump proposed letting Ukraine and Russia "fight for a while" before seeking peace, comparing the conflict to a dispute between children. The leaders discussed support for Ukraine, NATO defense spending, trade tensions, and the importance of transatlantic unity amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.

Zelenskyy and Trump Hold Key Meeting at NATO Summit in The Hague
Zelenskyy and Trump Hold Key Meeting at NATO Summit in The Hague

At the NATO summit in The Hague, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump engaged in a significant meeting addressing potential ceasefire plans, additional sanctions on Russia, and arms procurement to support Ukraine’s defense amidst ongoing conflict. Zelenskyy expressed satisfaction with the talks, highlighting continued international diplomatic efforts.

Discovering Nature’s Smallest and Rarest Creatures Worldwide
Discovering Nature’s Smallest and Rarest Creatures Worldwide

Nature's tiniest creatures, including the bumblebee bat, Paedophryne amauensis frog, and bee hummingbird, demonstrate incredible adaptations but face threats from habitat loss. This article highlights their distinct features, habitats, and the urgent need to protect these rare species worldwide.