The Globalist Nato agrees to a 5 per cent defence spend by 2035 as the US hails a “big win”
Jun 26, 2025
This discussion features Margus Tushkna, Estonia's foreign minister, who focuses on Russian threats to Ukraine and the urgency for European defense. Simon Bivier, Monocle’s Paris bureau chief, reveals how France is grappling with NATO dynamics and internal issues like retirement reform. Navina Kautour, from Nairobi, sheds light on significant protests in Kenya and the government's stance. Lastly, James Chambers, Monocle’s Asia editor, talks about Thailand's new cannabis regulations and their potential political impact.
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NATO's 5% Defense Spending Pledge
- NATO leaders pledged to spend at least 5% of GDP on defense by 2035 and committed continuous support to Ukraine.
- This increased defense spending is the most significant decision made at the summit in The Hague.
Challenges to Defense Spending Goals
- Achieving 5% defense spending by NATO members is unlikely due to economic and political challenges.
- Defense budgets compete with social welfare and education funding, causing complicated political debates.
Trump's Influence Dominated NATO
- The NATO summit focused heavily on keeping Donald Trump on board via flattery and royal treatment.
- Mark Rutte's comments like calling Trump "daddy" were strategic to maintain US support for NATO.