NATO leaders want to appease Trump, but spending billions more on the defense alliance 'would be just crazy for Europeans,' foreign policy expert says
Briefly

NATO has set a new target to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, up from the previous 2% established in 2014. This decision arises partially from pressure from former President Trump, who emphasized higher spending levels in previous years. Experts suggest that while some NATO members might meet these ambitious goals, others may find them unrealistic. The agreement aims to balance defense spending among allies and reflect their commitment to NATO amid current geopolitical instability.
Most European countries have not spent 5% (of GDP) in the Cold War. That is obviously something which is not only difficult to communicate to European constituencies, but also something that would impose massive burdens.
The pledge to increase to 5% of GDP is seen as a political play to appease Trump and reinforce NATO during significant global tensions.
Read at Fortune
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