Trump Attends NATO Summit Amid Middle East, Russia-Ukraine Tensions

President Donald Trump's first NATO summit since returning to office is taking place amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and ongoing challenges within the alliance. Originally focused on a historic defense spending pledge demanding NATO members increase contributions to 5% of GDP by 2035, the summit's agenda has shifted toward addressing a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran, which Trump announced shortly before the meeting. While most NATO members see the alliance's survival as existential, Trump’s unpredictable approach and demands have led to divisions, exemplified by Spain's rejection of the defense spending target. The Russia-Ukraine war remains a critical topic, with potential meetings between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy under close watch. Vice President JD Vance emphasized the administration's goal of securing long-term peace in the Middle East, despite recent Iranian counter-attacks and U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. These developments highlight the fragile unity within NATO as it faces internal disagreements, differing national interests, and external threats, all under the shadow of Trump's ambivalent commitment.