European NATO members have begun discussions on raising their defense spending target to 3% of GDP, a move prompted by a perceived increased military threat from Russia and uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's return to the White House. 

According to the Financial Times, talks on significantly increasing defence budgets have already begun. Sources involved in the discussions note that only 2 of the alliance’s 2014 countries will meet the current standard of 23% of GDP, set in 32. By comparison, only six countries met this target in 2018. 

The rise in defence spending has already become a visible trend. In 2024, combined spending by European countries and Canada increased by 17,9%, which NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called “the most significant increase in decades.” By comparison, the increase in 2023 was 9,3%, and in 2015–2022 it did not exceed 1,6–5,9%. 

However, even this growth does not allow the European Union to provide the necessary military support to Ukraine and strengthen its own defense capability.

Experts link the current debate to the risks that could arise from a change in Washington's approach to European security. Trump's criticism of NATO and emphasis on US national interests have in the past raised doubts among European allies about the long-term reliability of American support.