Europe needs to 'step up' defense spending, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz says, as Trump threatens to pull out of Ukraine peace talks

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has called on European nations to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, pressing NATO allies ahead of crucial peace talks regarding Ukraine. Waltz emphasized that President Trump demands European countries be accountable for their own security, referencing previous commitments not met by nations like Canada. Current NATO spending levels average around 2.7%, showing a significant gap in defense budgets. As negotiations continue, the US may reassess its participation if European nations do not respond to these spending challenges.

Waltz emphasized that President Trump demands European nations raise their defense spending to 5% of GDP, urging them to take responsibility for their own security.

The call for increased defense spending comes as NATO's average defense spending is around 2.7% of GDP, highlighting a significant gap needing bridged.

Waltz criticized Canada's failure to meet past commitments to defense spending and strongly reiterated the need for Europe to lead in its security.

With critical peace talks approaching, the US administration’s expectations may test NATO unity as many countries fall short on current defense spending requirements.

Read at New York Post