NATO to unveil big arms deals in Ankara before summit with Trump

NATO leaders are preparing to announce substantial arms deals totaling tens of billions of dollars in Ankara on Tuesday. These announcements are intended to signal that European nations are increasing their defense spending, a key demand from U.S. President Donald Trump, ahead of a crucial summit.

The European governments will reveal the deals at a NATO defense industry forum before Trump arrives to meet Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and other alliance leaders. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted that European defense spending has seen "staggering" increases, driven by concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Trump's persistent calls for greater contributions.

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We are now creating an alliance which is sustainable, where the U.S. knows it is a fair deal.

Trump has long accused European NATO members of depending too heavily on the United States for their security. Rutte stated that the alliance is becoming more sustainable and equitable. Last month, he reported that European members and Canada increased defense spending by $90 billion in real terms in 2025, reaching over $570 billion.

Despite these efforts, Trump has recently intensified his criticism of NATO allies, accusing them of not adequately supporting the U.S. in its conflict with Iran and suggesting he might withdraw from the alliance or disregard its mutual defense pact. European officials maintain they have facilitated U.S. military operations and are concerned about Trump's potential criticisms at the summit, though they hope Turkish President Erdogan and Secretary General Rutte can help maintain stability.

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staggering