NATO leaders are scheduled to gather in Ankara next week, with European officials seeking to reduce friction with U.S. President Donald Trump over issues including Iran and Greenland. Multiple reports say the summit is also intended to demonstrate that European members are increasing their role in NATO’s deterrence posture as Washington scales back some commitments to the alliance.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte says the meeting takes place next Tuesday and Wednesday. He frames the gathering as a test of alliance unity and as evidence that Europe is meeting pledges to raise defence spending, particularly in the context of deterring Russia. Reuters adds that the summit is expected to include announcements and agreements connected to defence cooperation, including arms deals worth tens of billions of dollars.
Overall, the reports describe Ankara as a venue for both political reconciliation over transatlantic disputes and practical steps toward strengthening European defence capabilities within NATO.
