NATO leaders are expected to reaffirm their commitment to Article 5 collective defence at the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara on 7–8 July, according to a draft declaration agreed by ambassadors and awaiting leaders’ approval.
The summit will focus on strengthening deterrence, increasing defence investment, expanding defence industrial production and sustaining support for Ukraine.
Key developments:
- Russia is described as a long-term threat to Euro-Atlantic security, while the declaration states Iran must never obtain a nuclear weapon.
- Allies plan an additional €70 billion in support for Ukraine in 2026, with comparable assistance expected in 2027.
- NATO is advancing its 5% of GDP defence investment commitment by 2035, alongside greater joint procurement and defence industry cooperation to improve military readiness.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is expected to emphasise stronger European and Canadian defence spending, increased production capacity and closer transatlantic cooperation.
Leaders are expected to formally endorse the Ankara Declaration at the conclusion of the summit on 8 July 2026.
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