

UK hosts Nato chief, Mark Rutte, as Trump pushes 5 per cent defence-spending plan
Jun 9, 2025
Ed Stocker, Monocle's Europe editor at Large, discusses Italy's citizenship referendum and its potential impact on national identity. Latika Burke provides a lens on international news dynamics while Marianne Messmer, a NATO expert, highlights the pressing need for increased European defense spending amid geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Matt Wolfe shares insights on Broadway's recent Tony Awards, celebrating diversity and artistic expression. Together, they navigate complex global political landscapes and cultural shifts.
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NATO's 5% Defence Spending Push
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is pushing European countries to increase defence spending to 5% of GDP.
- This aims to strengthen Europe's own deterrent amid possible reduced US troop presence and rising security threats from Russia.
UK Defence Focuses on Modern Tech
- The UK's Strategic Defence Review emphasizes rapid military procurement and modern tech inspired by lessons from Ukraine.
- It highlights drone warfare and digital components over traditional slow, costly major projects.
UK Embraces Integrated Warfare Concept
- The UK shifts to integrated military operations breaking down service silos for greater interoperability within NATO.
- This counters Russia's multi-domain warfare approach by coordinating land, cyber, and other domains continuously.