Leaders of the 32-member North Atlantic Treaty Organization are gathering in Ankara for a two-day summit that comes at a pivotal moment for the alliance, as the United States reassesses its long-standing security role in Europe.
Hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the summit is expected to focus on defence spending, Europe’s growing military responsibilities, and the future direction of NATO under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ahead of the meeting, Trump criticised several European allies, including Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, after some countries reportedly objected to the use of their military bases for U.S. operations against Iran. He has repeatedly called for greater “loyalty” from NATO members, raising questions about Washington’s future military commitment to Europe.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has highlighted increased defence spending by European allies and Canada, but the issue is expected to remain central to discussions as the alliance seeks to strengthen its military capabilities and modernise its defence industries.
The summit will also include meetings with Indo-Pacific partners such as Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to attend sessions focused on Ukraine’s security. Leaders will also discuss defence cooperation with Gulf nations and emerging security challenges.
Another key issue is the future of U.S. troop deployments in Europe following the Pentagon’s review of American military presence across the continent. European allies are expected to seek clarity on Washington’s long-term plans and its commitment to NATO’s collective defence principle under Article 5.
The summit is also likely to address the geopolitical impact of the recent U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, alongside efforts to expand defence production and strengthen the alliance’s preparedness for evolving global security threats.
