Former President Donald Trump and Polish President Andrzej Duda recently met at Trump Tower in New York City to discuss NATO spending. During the meeting, President Duda proposed that NATO countries increase their defense spending to 3% of GDP, up from the current 2% pledge. This proposal was reiterated by President Duda in a subsequent meeting with President Joe Biden, citing the need for a higher defense budget in response to the conflict initiated by Russia near NATO's eastern border.
In addition to the discussion on defense spending, Trump and Duda also talked about the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. Trump, who is the presumptive GOP nominee, has been vocal about his criticism of NATO defense spending. In a previous statement, he expressed a willingness to allow Russia to act as they please towards NATO members failing to meet defense spending guidelines, causing concern among leaders in Washington and Europe.
European diplomats are reportedly making preparations for a potential return of Trump to the White House, focusing on establishing safeguards for NATO and ensuring continued support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
