NATO allies meeting in The Hague have agreed to aim for defense spending equal to 3% of GDP by 2030, a higher benchmark meant to respond to growing security concerns across Europe and beyond. The move reflects pressure on member states to strengthen military readiness and share the burden more evenly.

Germany and Poland were among the first countries to signal support for the new target with plans to raise spending. Their commitments underscore a broader push inside the alliance to translate years of warnings about threats into concrete budget increases.

The agreement comes as European governments face persistent concern over Russia, ongoing instability near NATO borders, and demands from Washington for allies to invest more in defense. Leaders in The Hague framed the decision as a way to reinforce deterrence and maintain unity inside the alliance.

While the new goal is not yet universal in every detail, it marks a clear political signal: NATO members are preparing for a more dangerous security environment and expect stronger contributions from each capital in the years ahead.