Nato unveils $50 billion arms projects to boost defence spending amid Trump pressure

Nato countries on Tuesday announced defence deals worth at least $50 billion at a summit in Turkey, as Secretary-General Mark Rutte called for a "transatlantic defence industrial revolution" to rapidly strengthen the alliance's military capabilities. The announcements came as leaders sought to demonstrate increased defence spending amid pressure from US President Donald Trump.

Speaking at a defence industry forum in Ankara, Rutte warned that NATO could no longer afford delays in expanding its military capabilities.

"We don't have the luxury of time. We need capabilities now," he said, urging member states to speed up defence production and convert increased spending into contracts and equipment.

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He also called on the defence industry to take greater risks, saying, "The hum of machinery must become a roar."

Rutte said Nato allies had increased defence spending significantly, adding that the alliance aims to produce four million artillery shells annually by next year.

$50 billion in defence agreements

The new agreements, estimated to be worth at least $50 billion, include European countries purchasing surveillance drones from US defence company Northrop Grumman, while NATO will acquire aircraft from Swedish defence manufacturer Saab.

The announcements underscore Europe's efforts to strengthen its defence industry and reduce capability gaps, even as many countries continue to rely heavily on American-made weapons.

Trump criticises Nato allies

Ahead of the summit, President Donald Trump renewed criticism of several Nato allies, saying they had failed to adequately support the United States during its conflict with Iran.

Speaking after meeting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Trump said he had been "very disappointed with Nato" and singled out Britain, France, Germany and Italy for not doing enough.

He also suggested the United States could further reduce its military presence in Europe.

Trump revives Greenland claim

Trump again insisted that Greenland should be controlled by the United States rather than Denmark, arguing that the Arctic island is strategically important for American security.

His remarks revived a long-running dispute with fellow Nato member Denmark, whose Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and that Denmark's sovereignty must be respected.

Turkey ties improve

Trump also announced that Washington would lift sanctions imposed on Turkey over its purchase of Russia's S-400 missile defence system.

He indicated that the United States was open to selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, a move that would mark a major improvement in relations between the two Nato allies after years of tensions.

Ukraine remains a key focus

The summit also focused on continued support for Ukraine as it faces intensified Russian attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on allies to provide more air defence systems after fresh Russian missile and drone strikes killed dozens of people near Kyiv.

NATO leaders are expected to reaffirm their support for Ukraine while pledging to accelerate defence production across the alliance.