US Proposes NATO Perks for Allies Spending More Than 2% on Defense
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jul 1
US Proposes NATO Perks for Allies Spending More Than 2% on Defense
3 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Jul 1
Summary
Washington floated a plan to give NATO allies political and economic advantages if they spend more on defense, introducing the idea days before next week’s summit in Ankara.
Matthew Whitaker, the US ambassador to NATO, said heavier spenders could get more access to leaders and priority in weapons acquisition and procurement.
The proposal is meant to push allies to raise military outlays, but it also raises the prospect of a two-tier alliance that rewards members unequally.
Next week’s leaders’ meeting now faces a broader question beyond spending targets: whether NATO should formally tie influence and access to defense contributions.