Rutte expects NATO countries to present clear plans for 5% defense spending goal

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte anticipates that member nations will soon present concrete and credible strategies to achieve the alliance's defense spending goal. Speaking at a press conference in Ankara ahead of the NATO summit, Rutte noted that European allies and Canada are currently investing approximately 4% of their GDP in defense and security.

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European allies and Canada are already investing around 4 percent of gross national product on defense and security.

The alliance agreed at last year's summit to increase collective defense expenditures to 5% of GDP by 2035. This target includes 3.5% for core defense and an additional 1.5% of GDP earmarked for security-related purposes. Rutte emphasized the significant financial commitment, stating that European NATO allies and Canada collectively increased their defense spending by nearly 20% last year compared to the previous year. This translates to an additional $258 billion in investments over 2025 and 2026, a trend he expects to continue.

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European NATO allies and Canada spent almost 20 percent more on defense last year compared to the year before.

Rutte also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, underscoring the critical need for sustained support for the country. He specifically highlighted the importance of air defense capabilities in bolstering Ukraine's security.

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Seen as a whole for 2025 and 2026, it amounts to 258 billion dollars in extra investments.