NATO Defence Spending Agreement

NATO leaders convened in The Hague and reached a significant agreement to increase defence spending to 5% of their countries' economic output by 2025.

Joint Statement and Security Concerns

• The leaders expressed unity against "profound security threats and challenges."
• Emphasized the long-term threat from Russia to Euro-Atlantic security and the ongoing threat of terrorism.

Summit's Historical Context

• Secretary General Mark Rutte described the summit as historic.
• Commitment to continued support for Ukraine while promoting peace was highlighted.

Defence Spending Commitment

The agreement entails spending at least 3.5% of GDP on defence by 2035, with an additional 1.5% on security-related investments.

• Reaffirmation of the "ironclad commitment to collective defence."
• US President praised the outcome, emphasizing the move towards equality in burden-sharing.

Concerns and Reactions

• Some members, like Spain's Economy Minister, expressed concerns about the percentage focus.
• Belgium's Prime Minister considered the 3.5% target within 10 years as realistic.

Summit Proceedings

The summit began with a royal dinner and concluded with a concise meeting and brief communique.