NATO leaders will gather in Ankara next week for a summit aimed at strengthening the alliance and easing tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump over recent disagreements, including those involving Iran and Greenland.
The two-day meeting, hosted by Turkey, will bring together Trump and the leaders of the alliance’s other member states. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the summit will highlight Europe’s commitment to increasing defence spending and strengthening its military capabilities.
Leaders are also expected to reaffirm their support for Ukraine by pledging continued funding for weapons in its war against Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend a dinner hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and hold separate talks with Trump.
European officials hope Trump’s close relationship with both Erdoğan and Rutte will help ensure a productive summit despite recent strains within the alliance.
Trump recently criticised NATO members for relying too heavily on the United States for security, while alliance leaders have argued that European countries are increasing defence spending in response to long-standing U.S. concerns.
According to Rutte, European NATO members and Canada increased their defence spending by $90 billion in 2025, bringing the total to more than $570 billion. NATO members have also committed to spending 3.5% of their GDP on core defence by 2035, alongside an additional 1.5% on broader security investments.
Despite those commitments, recent disagreements over the Iran conflict, U.S. troop reductions in Europe, and Trump’s previous comments about Greenland have created uncertainty ahead of the summit.
European officials remain hopeful the meeting will reinforce NATO unity and strengthen cooperation despite ongoing challenges within the alliance.
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