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The military bloc’s leaders seek to project unity despite lingering disputes over military commitments and regional security
Published 8 Jul, 2026 13:46 | Updated 8 Jul, 2026 14:12
NATO leaders have reconvened in Ankara for the second and final day of the US-led military bloc’s annual summit, with efforts to project unity overshadowed by persistent disagreements over defense spending, as well as the Russia-Ukraine and Iran conflicts.
The first day was dominated by US President Donald Trump’s sharp criticism of European allies for failing to shoulder a greater share of the military burden and for not backing Washington during its confrontation with Iran. Trump also renewed his demand for US control of Greenland, while NATO members unveiled new multibillion-dollar defense procurement agreements intended to strengthen the bloc’s military capabilities and answer longstanding calls for higher spending.
Ukraine remains high on the agenda as Vladimir Zelensky seeks additional military support from Western backers, while leaders attempt to keep the focus on the bloc’s long-term rearmament plans.
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08 July 2026
14:07 GMT
A reporter challenged NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte over his silence as Trump berated allies and renewed his push to acquire Greenland, asking whether it affected his “self-respect.”
Rutte deflected the question, instead hailing the US president for making NATO “much stronger” by increasing European defense spending and citing the usual ‘Russia threat’ narrative.
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13:58 GMT
Asked whether the US would consider imposing a no-fly zone over Ukraine as a “security guarantee” in the event of “another Russian attack,” Trump said it remained an option.
“If it’s necessary, yeah,” the US president replied when pressed by a reporter during his meeting with Zelensky.
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13:56 GMT
NATO members have pledged €70 billion ($80 billion) in military aid to Ukraine in 2026, with support set to remain at “at least the equivalent levels” in 2027.
The summit’s final declaration, however, makes no mention of Ukraine’s possible accession to the US-led military bloc.
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13:43 GMT
Trump has said Washington will give Kiev a license to manufacture US Patriot air-defense missiles, rather than simply promise more deliveries.
“We’re going to give a license to you to make Patriots,” he told Zelensky. “This way you can’t complain that we’re not giving them enough.”
