European NATO members increased defence spending by 18% last year, marking the sharpest annual rise in decades, according to Reuters. The jump reflects growing pressure from Washington for allies to meet the alliance's spending commitments.

The increase comes as European governments face a shifting security environment and renewed scrutiny over how much they contribute to collective defence. The issue has long been a source of tension in transatlantic relations, with U.S. officials repeatedly urging allies to spend more.

While the latest figures show a significant uptick, debate continues over whether the pace of investment is enough to close long-standing gaps in military readiness. The spending surge also underscores how Europe is adjusting its defence posture amid wider uncertainty about the continent's security.

The report highlights a broader realignment inside NATO, where budget decisions are increasingly shaped by both external threats and political pressure from the United States.