NATO defence ministers are convening in Brussels today, with a focus on increasing defence spending, a request the United States has strongly emphasized.
Upon arrival, Alliance Secretary General Mark Rutte stated, “We are likely to agree on the targets for our defense capabilities,” addressing the U.S. call for member nations to raise their defence spending to 5 percent of GDP. He added, “Today we will determine what is needed to ensure our own defense. To prepare for potential conflicts, we must invest more. Taking proactive measures keeps us secure. This will represent a significant increase in investment.”
When an increase in spending is necessary, we must act accordingly.
The purpose of @NATO is to prevent wars through its strength. That’s why we aim for it to grow stronger.
As 32 allied ministers prepare to meet for the final ministerial session before the #NATOSummit, @SecGenNATO Rutte and @SecDef Hegseth address the media. https://t.co/LXi2AdpWJu
— U.S. Mission to NATO (@USNATO) June 5, 2025
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also reiterated the call for allies to meet the 5% of GDP defence spending target in comments to the press alongside Rutte.
“Every nation must contribute to reaching that 5 percent as recognition of the evolving threats we face,” he explained. “It is this strong military presence that acts as a deterrent, and we can’t solely depend on U.S. capabilities.”
Hegseth expressed pride in standing alongside allies, emphasizing, “The message remains: deterrence and peace through strength, but reliance cannot rest on one nation alone.”
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
