Overview

• Norway confirmed U.S. commitment to NATO's Article 5 but stressed the need for Europe to take on more defense responsibility to secure continued American support.
• European leaders are discussing a phased handover of security responsibilities from the U.S., with a focus on bolstering capabilities over the next decade.
• Defense spending across Europe has surged, with countries like Poland, Denmark, and the Baltic states exceeding NATO's 2% GDP target to counter Russian aggression.
• Discussions on alternative nuclear deterrence strategies, including extending France's nuclear umbrella to other European nations, are gaining traction amid U.S. uncertainty.
• Eastern European nations, including Poland and the Baltic states, are fortifying borders with Russia and Belarus, implementing advanced defenses and expanding military forces.