As the world reels from the latest US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, all eyes are turning to the Netherlands, where President Trump is expected to join NATO leaders for what could be the most consequential alliance summit since the Cold War.
This meeting comes at a time of extraordinary tension. The US attack on Iran has triggered missile launches against American bases in the Middle East and set off a wave of uncertainty about the future of global security. President Trump’s recent remarks about possible regime change in Iran have only added to the anxiety, leaving allies guessing about Washington’s next move.
European leaders are scrambling to reassure the US of their commitment to NATO, agreeing to a dramatic hike in defense spending—up to 5% of GDP for most members. The hope is to convince Trump that Europe is serious about its own security and to prevent any plans to reduce the American military presence on the continent. But behind the scenes, some countries are struggling to meet these demands, and disagreements over funding threaten to overshadow the summit.
The stakes are high. With Russia’s war in Ukraine grinding on and China’s influence growing, NATO’s unity and credibility are being put to the test. European nations are under pressure not only to spend more, but also to work together more efficiently—pooling resources and modernizing their military capabilities[1].
For many, this summit is a watershed moment. NATO’s secretary general has warned that Russia could be capable of attacking a member country within five years, underscoring the urgency of the alliance’s new commitments[1]. Yet, the outcome of the summit may hinge on Trump himself: whether he chooses to stay in Europe for the talks or return to Washington to manage the crisis with Iran.
As NATO leaders gather, the world watches to see if the alliance can rise to the challenge—or if divisions and uncertainty will leave the West more vulnerable than ever.