Up defence spending to 5% and be combat ready, US tells NATO

NATO allies must raise defence spending to 5% of gross domestic product, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth insisted yesterday.

- By Christopher Bucktin US Editor

He also demanded members are “combat ready” or they risk losing US support amid escalating security concerns at Russia's aggression.

Speaking before alliance defence ministers met, Mr Hegseth said NATO must move beyond mere gestures. He said: “The commitment is there: 5% per cent on defence spending. When you consider the threats that we face, the urgency in the world, it's critical. We don't need more flags. We need more fighting formations. We don't need more conferences. We need more capabilities. Hard power.”

The call for a sharp rise from the current NATO guideline of 2% has gained support across Europe and in Canada, but puts pressure on other countries including the UK.