As NATO defense ministers meet with newly appointed US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, European allies aim to show commitment to defense spending. With a 20% increase in 2024 spending compared to 2023, they're preparing to discuss specific spending goals at the upcoming June summit. The focus is on building rapport with Hegseth, who has limited defense policy experience. Allies will emphasize their defense plans and necessary investments rather than agreeing on a strict percentage increase, maintaining a strategic approach for future collaborations and joint capabilities without duplicating systems.
For now, it is all about showing Hegseth that the allies are doing their bit.
European allies will come face to face with the new US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for the first time.
Sources said that instead of agreeing to a set number, European allies intend to highlight their defense plans.
Experts believe the hardest thing will be to win over Hegseth, a former Fox News host.
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