NATO Pushes for Increased Defense Spending as Security Threats Mount

European nations face pressure to raise military budgets to 3% of GDP as Russia's aggression and U.S. demands reshape NATO priorities.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for a shift to a 'wartime mindset,' urging members to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030.
The UK currently spends 2.33% of its GDP on defense, ranking 10th among NATO countries, but has yet to present a plan to meet even a 2.5% target.
Donald Trump, the incoming U.S. President, has warned NATO members to meet spending targets or face potential U.S. disengagement and trade penalties.
Eastern European nations such as Poland and Estonia lead NATO in defense spending, with Poland committing to reach 5% of GDP by 2025 in response to Russian threats.
Experts argue that increased UK defense spending could bolster European security, reduce reliance on the U.S., and create economic opportunities if strategically invested.