NATO allies have made significant progress in increasing their military budgets, but US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says some countries still need to contribute more to meet agreed defence targets.
Speaking ahead of a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels, Hegseth acknowledged that many member states are honoring their commitments to boost military spending. However, he stressed that a number of allies remain behind schedule and should take stronger steps to strengthen collective security.
Hegseth stated that honest discussions among allies are necessary and beneficial, adding that partners should openly discuss both achievements and shortcomings. His comments are expected to reassure European allies ahead of next month’s NATO summit, where US President Donald Trump is expected to closely examine Europe’s defence commitments.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted the sharp increase in defence expenditures, noting that European countries and Canada are projected to spend more than $90 billion extra in 2025 compared with the previous year. This represents nearly a 20 percent rise in military spending.
Despite this progress, NATO officials indicate that several countries, including Slovenia and the Czech Republic, may fail to reach the alliance’s longstanding goal of spending at least 2 percent of gross domestic product on defence this year.
The United States has also informed allies that it plans to reduce some military assets currently allocated to NATO as Washington shifts greater strategic attention toward China. Reports suggest the reductions may involve fighter aircraft, reconnaissance platforms, aerial refueling capabilities, drones, submarines, and carrier strike groups.
European leaders have voiced concerns that these changes could temporarily weaken regional security while allies work to expand their own military capabilities. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said Europe would eventually compensate for the reductions but warned that replacing critical capabilities requires additional time.
At the same time, NATO members continue discussions on strengthening support for Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky participating in meetings aimed at securing further assistance in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
