President Donald Trump participated in the final day of the NATO summit aimed at reinforcing alliance unity. Leaders focused on defense spending, Ukrainian support, and transatlantic security.
On Wednesday, Trump attended the summit’s only plenary session. He held bilateral meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Trump wrapped up the summit with a press conference before heading to Washington from Ankara, Turkey.
The day followed Trump’s announcement on Tuesday about lifting U.S. sanctions on Turkey during a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Trump also discussed moving forward with F-35 fighter jet sales to Turkey despite past U.S. reluctance due to Turkey’s Russian S-400 purchase.
“We don’t sanction friends,” Trump said regarding the U.S.-Turkey relationship.
Wednesday’s focus was on strengthening collective defense. NATO members continued with defense spending commitments and coordination for Ukraine. Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy was pivotal as Kyiv pushed for more military aid and air defense resources from allies.
Ukraine reported critical shortages of Patriot interceptor missiles, crucial for defending against Russian ballistic attacks. Officials described the existing supply as insufficient during recent missile barrages.
Prior to the summit, Ukrainian officials urged partners to transfer Patriot interceptors immediately, as long-term production would take time. Germany’s backing for providing hundreds of missiles won’t bring immediate alleviation, highlighting the urgency of bridging shortfalls.
Trump also met with Syrian President al-Sharaa. This meeting came as Syria’s government sought better U.S. relations post-Assad regime collapse, reshaping Middle East security and enhancing U.S.-Turkish collaboration opportunities.
NATO discussions included meeting the 2025 commitment to spend 5% of GDP on defense and related investments. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte pressed for credible plans to bolster military capabilities, emphasizing the need for accelerated weapons production and infrastructure developments.
Amid the summit, Trump criticized European allies again over U.S. military efforts in Europe, hinting at potential troop withdrawal and renewing interest in Greenland.
“We could remove all of our soldiers out of Europe if they don’t step up,” Trump remarked.