Trump's Influence Dominates NATO Summit as Allies Commit to Increased Defense Spending

THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS – The recent NATO summit in The Hague, attended by 32 world leaders, saw discussions largely dominated by the influence of former US President Donald Trump. CNN correspondent Clare Sebastian reported from the summit, highlighting Trump's long-standing push for NATO allies to increase their defense spending. During the summit, it was noted that Trump had previously called for allies to dedicate 5% of their GDP to defense. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte acknowledged Trump's role, stating, "This would not have happened if you would not have been elected in 2016." Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda even adopted a 'Trumpian' phrase, suggesting, "We should choose the motto, 'Make NATO great again.'" Messages published by Donald Trump on Truth Social prior to the summit also emphasized his expectations for European contributions. One message read, "Europe is going to pay in a BIG way, as they should, and it will be your win." Trump himself expressed satisfaction, remarking, "They said, 'You did it, sir, you did it.' Well, I don't know if I did it, but I think I did." Despite the focus on Trump's influence, the core principle of NATO's Article 5, which mandates mutual defense, remained clear. Netherlands Prime Minister Dick Schoof affirmed, "Article 5 is very clear." While Trump later clarified his commitment to the alliance, the summit underscored the high-stakes diplomatic tightrope walked by leaders in addressing defense commitments.