Ambassador Whitaker's remarks come ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, where discussions will focus on European defense spending and the future role of the U.S. in NATO. He noted that the U.S. is reducing its involvement while expecting Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense.
The NATO allies had previously set a defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035, which includes a core defense spending goal of 3.5%. Whitaker pointed out that while many European countries have increased their defense budgets, some, like the U.K. and France, face significant fiscal challenges.
The summit is expected to address how NATO can adapt to a potential reduction in U.S. military presence and ensure that commitments translate into tangible military capabilities. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for regular reviews of defense spending and the importance of overcoming fragmented defense industries.
The discussions at the summit will likely shape the future of NATO's collective defense strategy and the financial commitments of its member states