President Donald Trump is entering the final day of the NATO summit, with alliance leaders aiming to project unity on defense spending and support for Ukraine. The summit's closing day includes a crucial plenary session followed by bilateral meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Trump's meeting with Zelenskyy is a focal point, as Ukraine continues to press allies for essential military assistance, particularly Patriot interceptor missiles. Ukrainian officials have warned of critically low supplies, stating that recent Russian ballistic missile attacks could not be intercepted due to dwindling inventories. Kyiv is appealing to nearly 40 partner nations for immediate transfers of Patriot interceptors from existing stockpiles while longer-term production ramps up. While European nations, financed by Germany, have committed to hundreds of Patriot missiles, many deliveries are expected months or years away, intensifying Ukraine's urgent need for current systems.
Alliance Defense Commitments
The final day's discussions are also expected to center on how NATO members will translate the 2025 commitment to spend 5% of gross domestic product on defense into tangible military capabilities. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has urged member nations to present "clear, concrete and credible plans" to accelerate the production of weapons, ammunition, and military infrastructure to bolster deterrence against Russia.
This comes after Trump previously questioned the extent of European allies' contributions to collective security, suggesting the potential withdrawal of U.S. troops from Europe if allies did not increase their defense spending.
Bilateral Meetings and Departures
Trump's agenda also includes a meeting with Syrian President al-Sharaa. This engagement follows shifts in the Middle East's security landscape and potential opportunities for U.S.-Turkish cooperation.
The summit follows a bilateral meeting where Trump announced the U.S. would lift sanctions on Turkey, stating, "We don't sanction friends." He also indicated a willingness to proceed with the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Ankara, despite previous U.S. opposition linked to Turkey's acquisition of Russian-made S-400 air defense systems.
President Trump is expected to conclude the summit with a press conference outlining the administration's priorities and any agreements reached before departing Turkey for Washington.