The participants of the NATO summit approved a final declaration in which Russia is officially designated as a long-term threat to Euro-Atlantic security. The document also reaffirms the allies’ commitment to assist Ukraine and support its defense capabilities in facing external challenges.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Support for Ukraine and Defense Cooperation
The declaration emphasizes that the member countries of the Alliance are fully committed to supporting Ukraine, as the security of this country is crucial for the stability of all of Europe. The document states that allies will take into account direct contributions to Ukraine’s defense, as well as assistance to its defense industry, when determining their own defense expenditures. Thus, support for Ukraine becomes an important component of NATO’s overall security and defense policy.
“United in the face of deep threats and security challenges, including the long-term threat posed by Russia to Euro-Atlantic security and the ongoing threat of terrorism, the members of the Alliance commit to investing 5% of GDP annually in core defense needs, as well as defense and security-related expenditures, by 2035 to ensure our individual and collective commitments, in accordance with Article 3 of the Washington Treaty.”
Defense Investments and New NATO Standards
NATO leaders agreed to invest 5% of gross domestic product in defense needs annually by 2035. This approach aims to ensure both individual and collective commitments of each member country in accordance with the requirements of Article 3 of the Washington Treaty. Summit participants emphasized that these investments will strengthen military forces, develop necessary capabilities, modernize infrastructure, and enhance readiness and resilience.
The declaration specifies that of the allocated 5% of GDP, at least 3.5% will be directed to core defense expenditures defined by agreed NATO standards. An additional up to 1.5% of GDP annually must be allocated for the protection of critical infrastructure, ensuring network security, and enhancing civil preparedness and resilience of member countries.
These decisions aim to ensure effective deterrence and protection against potential threats, particularly from the Russian Federation, as well as to strengthen the unity and capability of the Alliance to respond to contemporary security challenges.