NATO leaders concluded a two-day summit in Ankara, Turkiye, on July 9, 2026, where U.S. President Donald Trump criticized member nations, particularly Spain, over defense spending while reaffirming the alliance's commitment to support Ukraine. Despite tensions, the summit highlighted both unity and discord within NATO.
NATO's Defense Spending and Support for Ukraine
During the summit, NATO leaders agreed to increase defense spending and aid for Ukraine, pledging over €70 billion (approximately $80 billion) to assist the country amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The declaration reaffirmed NATO's Article 5 mutual assistance clause, emphasizing the alliance's collective defense commitment.
European leaders showcased their rising defense budgets, aiming to demonstrate to Trump that they are taking more responsibility for their security. The NATO declaration noted more than $50 billion in new procurements, though only five out of 32 member nations are expected to meet the alliance's goal of spending 3.5 percent of GDP on defense by 2026.
Trump's Trade Embargo on Spain
While Trump described the summit as “tremendously successful,” he announced a trade embargo on Spain, criticizing the country for not meeting defense spending expectations. He instructed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to cut off trade with Spain, including visits, amid ongoing tensions over defense commitments.
