Trump Demands NATO Members Increase Defense Spending to 5% of GDP

The president-elect's unprecedented proposal intensifies long-standing tensions over defense contributions within the alliance.

Donald Trump, set to begin his second term as U.S. president, has called on NATO countries to raise their defense spending to 5% of GDP, exceeding the current 2% target.
Trump claims NATO members have been 'taking advantage' of the U.S. and reiterated past threats to withdraw U.S. support for nations not meeting financial obligations.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has acknowledged the likelihood of increased pressure from Trump on defense spending, aligning with his earlier campaign promises.
Roughly two-thirds of NATO members are projected to meet the 2% GDP benchmark in 2024, with the U.S. contributing 3.4%—well below Trump's proposed 5% threshold.
Germany faces significant challenges in meeting even the 2% target due to looming budget deficits, while Trump's demands further complicate the alliance's financial dynamics.