NATO Allies Adopt 5% Defense Spending Goal by 2035 as Europe Ends 30-Year Underspend
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 31
NATO Allies Adopt 5% Defense Spending Goal by 2035 as Europe Ends 30-Year Underspend
4 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 31
NATO allies agreed at The Hague summit to raise their target to 5% of GDP for defense and defense-related investment by 2035, a sharp jump from the alliance’s long-standing 2% benchmark.
Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and renewed pressure from President Donald Trump broke a decades-old burden-sharing pattern in which European members relied on U.S. military protection while spending less themselves.
European NATO defense spending fell 22% between 1992 and 1999 as governments cashed in a post-Cold War “peace dividend” and prioritized welfare programs over military budgets.
That underinvestment left Europe dependent on U.S. logistics, intelligence, missile defense, airlift and nuclear deterrence, making higher budgets only a first step toward stronger military capability.
Analysts say rebuilding readiness will take years because allies must add not just equipment but command capacity and operational experience that cannot be restored quickly.
As Europe pledges trillions for defense, can it build a military capable of standing without American leadership?
With NATO pouring billions into AI and drones, is the era of traditional tanks and fighter jets over?
The 5% Solution: NATO’s Ambitious Defense Spending Target and Its Impact on Alliance Security
Overview
In June 2025, NATO allies set a new defense spending target, requiring each member to allocate 5% of GDP to defense and security by 2035. This ambitious mandate reflects persistent US pressure—especially under President Trump—and shifting American strategic priorities. The US has emphasized its central role in European defense, pushing allies to take on greater responsibility. The new target places heavy demands on European countries, aiming to strengthen collective security and ensure robust military capabilities. This decision marks a significant commitment by NATO members to adapt to evolving security challenges and maintain alliance unity.