Trump Demands NATO Increase Defense Spending to 5%

Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump is demanding that NATO countries increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, sparking concern among European allies facing budget constraints. Trump argues that NATO members are not contributing their fair share compared to the U.S., which covers a significant portion of NATO's budget, and has previously criticized NATO members for under-spending. He suggested that he might encourage Russian aggression against those not meeting their financial obligations. His proposal comes after NATO countries committed to a 2% GDP spending target following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with only a few, like Poland, currently nearing the new suggested level. This demand has led to diplomatic tensions and concerns about future U.S. commitment to the alliance, reflecting Trump's skepticism about the U.S. role in NATO and attempt to balance perceived inequities.