NATO member states are expected to reject a proposal from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to increase defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product (GDP), instead leaning toward a compromise target of approximately 3%. This decision is anticipated at the NATO summit in The Hague this June, Reuters reports via UNN.
Trump’s proposal to more than double the current 2% spending target has sparked debate among member nations, with officials indicating that no NATO country, including the United States, currently meets the suggested 5% level. While some leaders recognize the need for increased spending amid rising concerns about potential Russian aggression, they argue that 5% is unattainable for most nations.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crossetto stated that while adjustments are necessary, a 5% target is unrealistic. “I think there will be a shift,” Crossetto told Reuters. “It won’t be the 5%… but it will be more than 2%, which we are already struggling to achieve.” Italy, for example, allocates approximately 1.5% of its GDP to defense, well below the current 2% benchmark.
Poland, which borders Ukraine and faces heightened security risks, leads NATO members in defense spending relative to GDP, with an allocation of 4.12% in 2024. Estonia follows at 3.43%, while the United States ranks third with 3.38%. These figures remain outliers, with many member states failing to meet the current 2% target set a decade ago.
NATO estimates that its member nations collectively spent $1.474 trillion on defense in 2024, with $968 billion contributed by the United States and $507 billion by European countries and Canada. These contributions represent an average of approximately 2.71% of NATO’s total GDP.
Some officials and analysts believe Trump’s 5% suggestion serves as an ambitious starting point for negotiations, with the expectation that he will eventually settle for a more feasible target closer to 3%. Despite pushing for higher contributions, Trump’s incoming administration has assured European leaders of its commitment to continuing support for Ukraine amid ongoing regional tensions.
The summit in June will clarify the alliance’s new spending goal.
| Country | 2024 Defense Spending (% GDP) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Poland | 4.12% | Highest NATO defense spending, reflecting regional security concerns |
| Estonia | 3.43% | Among top contributors relative to GDP |
| United States | 3.38% | Largest total defense spender |
| Italy | 1.5% | Below current 2% NATO target |
| NATO Average | 2.71% | Collective spending figure across member states |
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