European leaders agree to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP amid U.S. pressure

On June 25, 2025, during a NATO summit in The Hague, Netherlands, U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed American commitment to NATO's collective defense, exemplified by his assertion that an attack on one member is an attack on all. Amid escalating security threats, NATO allies agreed to increase their defense expenditures from a minimum of 2% to a new target of 5% of GDP by 2035, marking a historic commitment for the alliance. This shift, emphasized during discussions, aims to alleviate the defense burden traditionally shouldered by the United States and to expand military capabilities across Europe. U.S. officials highlighted that this change serves not only as a significant win for the U.S. taxpayers but also enhances overall security for both the U.S. and its allies. Trump's leadership on this issue was pivotal in persuading NATO members to commit to these higher spending levels, leading to significant investments in defense and military readiness. This change was interpreted as a reflection of European nations' desire to assert more responsibility in collective security, particularly in light of growing geopolitical tensions, including threats posed by Russia and instability in the Middle East. The summit illustrated a shift in perspective for many leaders, acknowledging the necessity for robust security measures to counter rising global threats. Secretary General Mark Rutte of NATO recognized Trump's influence in driving these commitments, labeling them as a monumental win for Western civilization and crucial for the security architecture of Europe and beyond.