NATO leaders have agreed to raise the alliance’s defense spending target to 3.5% of GDP by 2030, according to Reuters. The move reflects continued concern over Russia’s war in Ukraine and growing pressure from Washington for European allies to contribute more to collective security.

The new pledge marks a significant shift from the long-standing 2% benchmark that many members had struggled to meet. Leaders framed the decision as a response to a more dangerous security environment in Europe, where the war in Ukraine has driven renewed calls for stronger military readiness and sustained support for Kyiv.

The commitment is intended to give allies a clearer path for increasing military budgets over the next several years. It also underscores the American push for burden-sharing across the alliance, with U.S. officials arguing that NATO members must invest more heavily in their own defense.

While the agreement signals unity on deterrence, it may also sharpen debates inside member states over public spending, domestic priorities, and how quickly governments can expand defense budgets without cutting other services.