Nato leaders have convened in The Hague for a summit considered groundbreaking by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, aiming to ensure lasting peace in Europe. This gathering marks US President Donald Trump’s first participation in a Nato summit since 2019, and all 32 leaders are expected to pledge 5% of their national output for defense and associated initiatives.
Prior to the summit, Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Trump’s leadership in a social media message, stating it was remarkable that they had achieved consensus on the 5% commitment. He commended Trump’s decisive actions regarding Iran and affirmed that such measures enhance safety. Rutte expressed no concern about sharing the private message, indicating transparency.
The summit is crucial as Western leaders navigate their unpredictable relationship with Trump. Rutte advised his European colleagues to stop fretting about US loyalty to Nato and focus on increasing military investments and support for Ukraine. With the US showing unwavering commitment, leaders from Europe and Canada have already pledged over $35 billion in military aid to Ukraine this year.
The backdrop of this summit includes recent tragic losses in Ukraine due to Russian assaults, with over a dozen lives claimed in a single day. Ukrainian President Zelensky is set to engage with Trump during the event, following mixed interactions in the past. This summit reflects a pivotal shift towards ambitious defense spending goals, proposing a new standard that far exceeds previous benchmarks.
Source: www.bbc.com
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