NATO chief Stoltenberg: Trump was right on defense spending

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has publicly acknowledged that U.S. President Donald Trump was right to pressure allies to increase defense spending and modernize their militaries. Speaking in a "Politico" podcast, Stoltenberg expressed strong support for Trump's approach, stating, "I just like this guy. I think what he is doing for NATO is great news."

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I just like this guy. I think what he is doing for NATO is great news.

Stoltenberg's remarks come as NATO leaders convene in Ankara for a summit. The alliance aims to demonstrate progress on defense spending commitments, a key demand from Trump. Many European allies have expressed reservations about Trump's commitment to NATO, citing his past rhetoric and actions, including threats regarding Greenland and questioning the Article 5 collective defense clause. However, Stoltenberg emphasized that Trump's efforts align with a long-standing U.S. goal since the Eisenhower era: balancing defense cost-sharing between the U.S. and Europe.

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President Trump is essentially achieving what U.S. presidents have been trying to achieve since the Eisenhower era, which is to balance U.S. and European defense spending.

The summit in Ankara is expected to mark significant changes for the alliance, with billions of dollars slated for key defense programs. Stoltenberg noted that European countries are fulfilling their promises by increasing military budgets and taking greater responsibility for continental defense against Russia. "After just one year, we are already seeing essential progress," he told reporters. Despite internal disagreements, Stoltenberg asserted that the alliance remains united and that America is a full partner.

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After just one year, we are already seeing essential progress.