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NATO Ministers Address U.S. Defense Spending Demands and Global Strategy

At a Brussels meeting, U.S. officials reaffirm NATO commitments but push for a 5% GDP defense spending target, sparking debate among European allies.

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Overview

  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance's unity despite ongoing tensions with the U.S. over defense spending demands.
  • U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated America's commitment to NATO while urging members to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.
  • European allies expressed concerns about the feasibility of meeting the proposed spending target, though some, including Germany, have announced plans to boost defense budgets.
  • NATO's discussions also focused on Ukraine's security and reconstruction, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha participating in the talks.
  • The alliance is broadening its strategic focus by engaging with Indo-Pacific partners, including Australia, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand, to address global security challenges.