Key facts
- NATO allies reaffirmed their 'ironclad commitment' to collective defense under Article 5.
- U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated threats regarding Greenland and trade with Spain.
- Despite public comments, Trump reportedly struck a less combative tone during the leaders' session.
- NATO allies pledged €140 billion in aid to Ukraine over two years.
- The alliance committed to awarding $50 billion in new military contracts and strengthening its industrial base.
NATO allies concluded their summit in Ankara by reaffirming their collective defense commitment, despite disruptive threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. The final declaration emphasized an 'ironclad commitment' to Article 5 and the transatlantic bond, stating that 'an attack on one is an attack on all.'
Despite Trump's public pronouncements, including renewed claims on Greenland and criticism of Spain's defense spending, his tone within the closed-door session was reportedly less combative. French President Emmanuel Macron described the message from the leaders' meeting as one of unity, noting that Trump praised some allies for high defense spending.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted Europe's increased defense investments as serving its own interests and reiterated commitment to Ukraine, framing military aid as a path to peace. This commitment was reflected in the final statement, which labels Russia a 'long-term threat' and pledges €70 billion in aid to Ukraine for both this year and next. The alliance also committed to strengthening its industrial base, awarding $50 billion in new military contracts, and eliminating defense trade barriers among allies.
While the summit successfully avoided a major rupture, the stress of managing Trump's rhetoric has led some allies to question the necessity of annual leader-level gatherings, according to NATO diplomats. The final statement expressed anticipation for future meetings without committing to a specific date.