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Leaders of the NATO member countries met in Ankara (Turkey) on 7 and 8 July, for a summit—as has become something of a habit—revolved around U.S. President Donald Trump, who alternated between threats, reproach and flattery to rally the NATO members behind him, with the blessing of Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Like the Americans, the Europeans played the hits: both the Europeans and Canadians highlighted their increased defense spending, which rose on average from 2.3% of GDP in 2025 to 2.53% in 2026. It was also an opportunity to reaffirm support for Ukraine, with the promise of 70 billion euro in military equipment, assistance, and training this year, and the same amount in 2027. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also secured authorization from the United States to manufacture Patriot missiles—expensive weapons that are essential to the country’s defense against Russian air attacks.
Meanwhile, Trump rehearsed a few of his favorite refrains: criticising Spain for its lack of military cooperation, complaining about Europe’s lack of involvement in the war in Iran, and laying claim to Greenland… You know the tune.
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