NATO Summit to focus on Ukraine support, defense spending, and Alliance readiness

The continuation of military support for Ukraine, increased defense spending by member states, the gradual repositioning of U.S. military forces in Europe, and the strengthening of NATO’s defense industrial base are expected to dominate discussions at the NATO Summit in Ankara on July 7–8, according to diplomatic sources.

Support for Ukraine is set to remain one of the summit’s central priorities. Under a draft declaration already approved by the Permanent Representatives of NATO’s 32 member states in Brussels, Allied leaders are expected to commit to providing €70 billion in military assistance to Ukraine in 2026 and to maintaining support at a similar level in 2027.

Diplomatic sources noted that several countries making significant contributions to Ukraine’s defense had advocated for the introduction of country-specific quotas for military aid. However, the proposal failed to secure the consensus required for adoption.

The total value of military assistance pledged for Ukraine over the two-year period is expected to reach €140 billion. The package will cover military equipment, training programs, and other forms of security assistance. Included in this amount is the €60…