The leaders of NATO member states signed a declaration reaffirming their commitment to collective defense and support for Ukraine. This came amid concerns about President Trump’s stance on NATO. He had reduced US financial aid to Ukraine, suggesting Europe should take responsibility.
The communiqué, signed by all member states, cited a commitment to NATO’s Article 5, which ensures collective defense. It also promised 70 billion euros in military aid to Ukraine, funded by Europe and Canada over the next two years. Despite Trump’s criticisms, the summit remained on track.
The communiqué emphasized the trans-Atlantic bond, asserting, “An attack on one is an attack on all.” It underscored NATO’s solid support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. However, it did not reiterate a commitment to make Ukraine a NATO member, which Trump has opposed.
The financial commitment to Ukraine includes 30 billion euros from an E.U. loan and funds from individual countries. This year’s and next year’s aid extend NATO’s previous promise of 40 billion euros from last year.
Trump’s calls for increased European defense spending and a shift of some US resources towards the Indo-Pacific are influencing NATO’s direction. The communiqué mentioned a move towards “a modernized alliance” with more European input and reduced US involvement, aiming for “a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO.”
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