NATO allies are expected to announce billions of dollars in new arms contracts and increased weapons production at the upcoming NATO summit, according to diplomats familiar with draft negotiations.
The summit will take place in Ankara on July 7–8, with leaders expected to sign a short joint declaration still under discussion.
Officials say the document remains subject to change until the final approval by heads of state and government.
Focus on defence production and spending
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is reportedly aiming to centre the NATO summit on boosting defence industrial capacity across the alliance.
Diplomats said the goal is to increase rapid weapons production and strengthen transatlantic defence supply chains, while also addressing internal divisions among allies.
European allies and Canada are said to have increased defence spending by $139 billion compared with the previous year, following an agreement to raise spending targets to 3.5% of GDP by 2035.
Ukraine support and Russia threat reaffirmed
According to draft language, NATO allies are expected to pledge around €70 billion in military support for Ukraine next year, with discussions ongoing over a similar amount for the following year.
The United States is not expected to contribute to this specific funding commitment, diplomats said.
The declaration is also expected to reaffirm NATO’s Article 5 collective defence clause and describe Russia as a long-term threat to alliance security.
Transatlantic tensions remain
Discussions ahead of the NATO summit come amid ongoing tensions between the United States and European allies over burden-sharing and defence priorities.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a review of American troop deployments in Europe, aimed at encouraging higher European defence spending.
Washington has also signalled limits on certain advanced weapons transfers, including long-range missile systems, amid concerns over escalation risks.
Iran conflict adds diplomatic strain
The draft statement is also expected to address the recent conflict involving Iran, with allies calling for freedom of navigation in key maritime routes.
NATO diplomats said the text will emphasise that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons, while attempting to balance differing positions among member states.
Despite internal disagreements, officials described negotiations on the summit declaration as largely progressing smoothly.
Also read: First €3.2 billion disbursement from €90 billion loan to Ukraine
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