US Demands Increased Defense Spending from NATO Allies Not Meeting 2% GDP Target

brussels - Several NATO countries, including Spain and Italy, are falling short of the 2% GDP defense spending target, facing pressure from the US for higher investments in defense.

US Demands Increased Defense Spending from NATO Allies

Despite a 2014 agreement for NATO allies to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense by 2024, the recent NATO report reveals that nine countries are failing to meet this target.

Spain's Defense Investment

Spain, currently at 1.2%, plans to boost defense spending by over 10 billion euros this year, much to the discontent of some coalition members.

Italy's 'Creative Accounting'

Italy aims to reach the NATO target this year, currently at 1.5%, by including existing expenses like the coast guard and financial police in defense calculations.

Belgium and Canada's Commitments

Belgium plans to meet the 2% target this year, while Canada aims to comply within two years, with the US pushing for a new target of 5% at the upcoming NATO summit.

Future NATO Summit and Expectations

US advocates for a 5% target, while Europeans lean towards 3.5%; Dutch PM Rutte is in Washington preparing for the summit and discussing defense spending expectations.