Trump tests NATO unity at uncertain summit in Ankara

NATO leaders are gathering in Ankara for their annual summit amid a complex international landscape marked by ongoing wars, great power rivalry, and internal alliance tensions. The two-day meeting will be dominated by discussions on the conflict in Ukraine and the evolving relationship between NATO and the United States, particularly under President Donald Trump's administration. Trump has previously threatened to reduce U.S. involvement and has criticized allies for not meeting defense spending targets, while also accusing them of disloyalty for not supporting U.S. actions in the Middle East. A key agenda item for the summit is the proposed increase in defense spending among allies, aiming for 5% of GDP by 2035, alongside strengthening domestic defense industries. The summit, dubbed the "summit of truth" by diplomats, will bring together leaders from 32 NATO nations, as well as partners from Ukraine, the European Union, the Indo-Pacific, and the Gulf. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is a key attendee and is expected to hold discussions with President Trump. Zelenskyy has been vocal in his urgent appeals for enhanced air defense capabilities for Ukraine, emphasizing the critical need for decisions on air defense support, particularly regarding Patriot missile systems. He warned that any delay in providing these resources would result in further loss of life and embolden Russia's aggression, stressing that the necessary resources exist but political will is lacking for immediate deployment.