U.S. President Donald Trump has lauded NATO’s decision to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 as a pivotal advancement for the alliance. The announcement came during Trump’s address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he emphasized the jump from the previous 2% target.
The agreement, finalized at the NATO Summit in The Hague in 2025, outlines that members will allocate at least 3.5% of GDP to essential defense requirements, with an additional 1.5% dedicated to defense-related investments and security needs. This move aligns with NATO’s strategic objectives to enhance military capabilities and collective security.
NATO has confirmed that European allies and Canada are actively increasing their defense budgets to meet the new commitment. The alliance reported that these countries collectively boosted their core defense expenditure by nearly 20% in real terms in 2025 compared to the preceding year.
In his remarks, Trump also addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging for a resolution to the war, which he noted continues to result in significant loss of life. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to pursuing diplomatic solutions to the crisis.
The 5% GDP defense spending target, set for 2035, reflects NATO’s broader focus on strengthening defense production and ensuring the security of its member states. This strategic shift underscores the alliance’s commitment to adapting to evolving global security challenges.