Public statements from the US Department of Defense or State Department

Trump Seeks to More Than Double NATO Defense Spending to 5%, Will Continue Ukraine Aid

Dec 20, 2024, 06:01 PM

According to a report by the Financial Times, President-elect Donald Trump's team has informed European officials that the incoming administration will demand that NATO member states increase their defense spending to 5% of their GDP. Currently, only 23 of NATO's 32 members meet the existing target of 2% of GDP for defense spending, with Poland among the highest at 4.7%. Trump's proposal would more than double the current commitment, aiming to bolster the alliance's military capabilities. Sources indicate that the new administration may consider a target of 3.5% if 5% proves unattainable. Despite previous uncertainties regarding his stance on Ukraine, Trump's team indicated that the United States plans to continue supplying military aid to Ukraine after the inauguration. While Trump desires an immediate end to the conflict and believes that Ukraine should not be granted NATO membership, he considers that maintaining military aid to Kyiv could ensure a 'peace through strength' outcome. The Financial Times report underscores Trump's emphasis on equitable burden-sharing among NATO allies and his commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.