Context:

NATO leaders are convening at The Hague, primarily focusing on accommodating President Trump's demands for increased military spending while maintaining a united front. Despite Russia being seen as NATO's chief challenge, discussions on its aggression are expected to be muted to avoid discord with Trump, who has shown reluctance in sanctioning Russia or openly criticizing its actions. Mark Rutte, NATO's secretary general, has secured commitments from allies to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, aiming to deter Russian militarization and satisfy Trump's requirements. The summit's brief agenda deliberately avoids contentious issues, particularly those involving Ukraine, to prevent division and ensure smooth proceedings. The outcome leaves questions about NATO's concrete support for Ukraine, as Trump's focus shifts away from pressuring Russia for peace in the region.

Dive Deeper:

• The NATO summit in The Hague is structured to avoid provoking President Trump, focusing on military spending while downplaying discussions on Russia, despite its aggressive stance being a primary concern for most member states.

• President Trump has been inconsistent in his dealings with Russia, showing little interest in sanctioning it for the Ukraine conflict and expressing a desire to foster economic and diplomatic relations with Moscow.

• Mark Rutte, NATO's secretary general, has orchestrated the summit to emphasize increased defense spending, securing commitments from members to target 5% of GDP, a significant rise from the previous 2% goal set in 2014.

• The summit agenda avoids a new strategic approach toward Russia and omits substantial engagement with Ukraine, reflecting Trump's ambivalence towards Ukrainian President Zelensky and the ongoing conflict.

• While the summit aims to demonstrate unity and achieve a consensus on spending targets, it leaves unresolved issues regarding NATO's support for Ukraine, as Trump's administration shifts responsibility for aiding Ukraine onto European nations.