In a landmark announcement on Thursday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg revealed that, for the first time since the alliance’s inception, European members will collectively allocate 2% of their GDP towards defence expenditures this year.
Stoltenberg emphasized, “In 2024, NATO allies in Europe will invest a combined total of $380 billion in defence.”
Out of the 31 NATO members, 18 are slated to meet or exceed the 2% GDP target, a goal established by NATO a decade ago in response to mounting security concerns following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, according to Stoltenberg.
Brad Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, hailed this achievement as “significant and positive progress” while urging for further action, stating, “More needs to be done.”
“Some serious explaining to do,” Bowman added, addressing the capitals that fall short of their commitment, particularly amidst the ongoing crisis in Europe, deemed the worst invasion since World War II.
Poland and the United States are anticipated to lead in defence spending as a percentage of their respective GDPs, while Luxembourg allocates the least proportionately.
However, concerns have emerged regarding potential divisions within NATO, particularly about the United States’ commitment under a potential return of former President Donald Trump. Trump’s recent remarks have sparked apprehension, with his suggestion of allowing Russian actions against NATO members failing to meet defence spending targets being labelled as “dangerous” and “un-American” by President Joe Biden.
Stoltenberg, however, expressed confidence in the enduring commitment of the United States to NATO, citing its national security interests and bipartisan support. He acknowledged the criticism from the U.S. regarding allies’ defence spending shortfall as valid but noted significant progress, with European allies and Canada adding over $600 billion to defence since the 2014 pledge.
Trump, who assumed office after the 2014 Wales pledge, has claimed credit for NATO’s increased spending during his tenure. However, NATO data reveals that European expenditures rose gradually from 2015 to 2022, with much of the increase predating Trump’s presidency and continuing during his term, despite economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
