NATO summit in Ankara sees Trump dominate and pledges higher defense budgets and Ukraine support

Former President Donald Trump took center stage at the NATO summit in Brussels, delivering a series of remarks that focused sharply on Europe’s strategic direction and Iran’s regional activities. In a 45‑minute address, Trump warned that “Europe is losing its edge” and accused Iran of “fueling instability” across the Middle East, urging member states to adopt a tougher posture. His comments dominated the morning’s schedule, prompting a swift response from alliance officials who emphasized the collective nature of NATO’s decisions.

In the wake of Trump’s statements, NATO leaders convened a closed session to reaffirm the alliance’s priorities. The summit’s communique committed all members to raise defence spending to at least 2 percent of gross domestic product by 2030, with several countries announcing immediate budget increases. Additionally, the alliance confirmed its ongoing military and financial assistance to Ukraine, extending a multi‑year aid package that includes advanced air‑defence systems and training for Ukrainian forces. The leaders also agreed to enhance cyber‑defence cooperation and to accelerate the integration of new member states’ capabilities.

The summit concluded with a unified message that, despite divergent political voices, NATO remains focused on bolstering collective security, deterring aggression, and supporting partners under threat. The alliance’s commitments to higher defence budgets and sustained Ukraine support signal a continued strategic emphasis on deterrence and resilience in the face of evolving global challenges.