European leaders are facing pressure to increase defense spending, spurred by Russia's aggression and U.S. criticisms of NATO reliance. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. cannot prioritize European security. With existing economies strained, the challenge lies in securing public support for higher budgets. Trump has proposed a drastic increase to 5% of GDP, seen largely as a negotiation tactic. Future commitments from NATO countries will likely lead to adjusted targets around 3-3.5% at upcoming summits, as they attempt to balance domestic economic concerns with international security obligations.
European leaders are more serious than at any time since the Cold War about increasing how much of their national budgets they devote to their militaries.
Hegseth reiterated the point, saying 'stark strategic realities prevent the United States from being primarily focused on the security of Europe.'
Many expect NATO to settle on a new target, closer to 3 or 3.5 percent of gross domestic product, at the next summit in June.
European diplomats feel that Trump's push for increased spending is a bargaining tactic to gauge how much commitment EU countries have towards defense.
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