NATO Commits to Major Defense Spending Increase by 2035 at Summit in The Hague

At the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague, Netherlands, held on June 24–25, member nations agreed to increase their annual defense and security-related expenditures to 5% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2035. This commitment includes allocating at least 3.5% to core defense spending, with the remaining 1.5% directed toward defense-related activities. (cnbc.com)

The summit also reaffirmed the alliance's "ironclad commitment to collective defense" as enshrined in Article 5 of the NATO treaty. Additionally, member states pledged continued support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. (pbs.org)

However, not all member states view the 5% target as feasible. Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles stated that reaching this goal is "absolutely impossible," citing limitations in industrial capacity and resource availability. Spain commits to achieving a 2% GDP allocation based on its capabilities. (elpais.com)

Conversely, the United Kingdom, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has embraced a pragmatic approach to national security. The UK's 2025 National Security Strategy outlines a robust stance, emphasizing military strength and strategic independence to counter threats from adversaries such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Defense spending is set to rise significantly—from 3.8% to 5% of national income by 2035—with key investments including an order of U.S. F-35 fighter jets equipped for tactical nuclear missions. (ft.com)

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to reduce Russia's military spending starting next year, contrasting with NATO's decision to increase defense expenditures. Putin criticized NATO's spending, asserting it primarily supports the U.S. military-industrial sector. He emphasized that Russia's budget planning is leaning towards reduced defense expenditures over the coming three years, although no final agreement has been reached within government ministries. (ft.com)

The Netherlands' operation Orange Shield was one of the largest security operations in its history, involving 27,000 personnel—nearly half of the Dutch National Police workforce. Enhanced sea patrols, aerial surveillance, and restricted access around the World Forum were implemented. Despite these measures, hundreds protested in The Hague against increased military spending and ongoing conflicts, including the Israel-Iran conflict. (en.wikipedia.org)

This summit represents a pivotal moment for NATO, reflecting a unified response to evolving global security challenges and a commitment to strengthening the alliance's collective defense capabilities.