NATO leaders have made a significant commitment to increase military spending among member countries. During a summit in The Hague on June 25, 2025, the 32-member alliance agreed to allocate up to 5 percent of their national GDP to defense and related sectors by 2035. This decision is being described as a major step forward for collective security.
The new spending target was outlined in a communique that emphasized the importance of investing in core defense needs and security-related expenses. The commitment includes a review set for 2029, which will occur after the next U.S. presidential election, to assess progress and the ongoing threat from Russia.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the agreement groundbreaking, a sentiment echoed by many leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump, a vocal advocate for higher NATO spending, expressed pride in the shift, suggesting that it was a result of his pressure on allies.
While many countries are on board with the new spending targets, not everyone is in agreement. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has stated that his country will stick to its current 2 percent spending level, arguing that it can fulfill NATO’s defense plans without reaching the higher target. Trump criticized Spain’s position, suggesting economic consequences could follow.
Other nations like Belgium and Slovakia have also voiced concerns. Belgium believes the timeline for the new spending goals is unrealistic, while Slovakia insists on maintaining the right to make its own military spending decisions.
Despite these objections, NATO’s new framework sets a target of 3.5 percent for core defense spending, with an additional 1.5 percent for broader security measures. This includes investments in infrastructure, cyber defense, and emergency response capabilities. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store highlighted the significance of moving beyond the previous 2 percent goal, noting the need for enhanced military capabilities.
As the U.S. shifts its focus to conflicts in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific, European NATO members are being called upon to take on a greater share of military responsibilities. The backdrop of ongoing U.S. involvement in various global conflicts, including support for Ukraine and military actions in the Middle East, adds urgency to NATO’s new spending commitments.