NATO summit: Who is going and what can we expect?

NATO leaders convene in Ankara for a two-day summit, facing significant pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to enhance European defense spending. The meeting occurs against a backdrop of months of transatlantic friction, particularly concerning the Iran war and relations with Greenland. President Trump's consistent criticism of NATO, coupled with announced troop withdrawals from Europe and a review of the U.S. military presence, has created uncertainty within the alliance.

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In 2025, European Allies and Canada increased their investments in core defence requirements by more than $139bn.

Officials anticipate that discussions will center on progress toward defense spending targets, increasing defense industrial production, and implementing a "burden-shifting" strategy from the U.S. to Europe. European leaders aim to demonstrate their commitment to a pledge made last year to spend 5% of their gross domestic product on defense by 2035. A summit declaration is expected to state that European allies and Canada have increased their defense investments by over $139 billion in 2025, emphasizing a move toward a stronger Europe within a stronger NATO.

Support for Ukraine remains a key agenda item. NATO members are expected to reaffirm their commitment and pledge further assistance, with leaders set to commit €70 billion in military equipment, assistance, and training for Ukraine for 2026, maintaining equivalent levels in 2027. This funding will draw from existing bilateral pledges and a €60 billion EU loan facility for Ukrainian defense investment and procurement for 2026-2027. Notably, the United States is not expected to contribute directly to this specific funding package.

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We are building the future: a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO - a modernised Alliance. European Allies and Canada, working with the United States, are assuming greater responsibility for the Alliance's defence.

Beyond spending and Ukraine, the summit aims to shift focus towards scaling up weapons production and fostering defense innovation. Officials plan to announce deals worth tens of billions of dollars during an accompanying defense industry forum in Ankara. European officials also expressed concerns regarding Iran, though the article text cuts off before detailing these.

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For 2026, Allies pledge €70bn in military equipment, assistance and training for Ukraine and affirm their sovereign commitments to sustaining at least equivalent levels in 2027.