US and Iran trade fire as tensions rise over Strait of Hormuz

The US military has significantly increased attacks on Iran in recent days, marking the most intense bombardment since a memorandum of understanding last month. US fighter jets and warships have targeted hundreds of military sites and some civilian locations across at least 10 Iranian provinces, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran claims to have closed the Strait due to US intervention and retaliated by attacking US interests in several regional countries. US Central Command stated over 300 military targets were hit, including coastal surveillance and naval assets, but did not acknowledge striking civilian objectives. Attacks have impacted infrastructure, including port facilities and the perimeter of Iran's nuclear power plant, and have reportedly reduced electricity generation capacity.

Iran has attacked five Gulf nations and closed the Strait of Hormuz following a series of US bombings on its southern coast. Tehran claimed responsibility for attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, and Oman, stating it was a response to renewed US strikes. The US Central Command conducted its third round of strikes targeting Iranian radar, missile, and drone sites. This escalation follows Iran's prior closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane, and attacks on commercial vessels, which Iran stated was due to US violations of a recent memorandum of understanding. The conflict has intensified with tit-for-tat attacks and the breakdown of a ceasefire.

At a recent NATO summit in Ankara, US President Donald Trump exhibited a volatile performance, initially expressing anger and criticizing allies over issues like Iran and defense spending. However, he later shifted to praising the alliance and its members, including Ukraine's president. Analysts suggest this sudden change in tone may be linked to Trump's affinity for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with whom he expressed a strong relationship. The article highlights Trump's tendency to focus on individual leaders and countries rather than alliances, and notes the efforts of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in managing Trump's engagement. This unpredictable behavior has left US allies apprehensive about the consequences for the alliance.

The US launched airstrikes against Iran, killing at least 14 people, in retaliation for Iran's attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by striking Gulf countries, marking the most intense exchange of fire since a ceasefire extension. These tit-for-tat strikes occurred after President Trump declared a memorandum of understanding aimed at extending the ceasefire "over." The US stated its strikes targeted approximately 90 sites to degrade Iran's capacity to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran accused the US of war crimes, citing attacks on bridges and infrastructure. The escalating conflict has raised concerns about the breakdown of the ceasefire and the prospects for ongoing negotiations between the two nations.

The United States and Iran have engaged in a second day of retaliatory attacks, escalating tensions and jeopardizing a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at extending a ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Following US strikes on approximately 90 Iranian military targets, Iran stated it attacked US military-linked sites in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. The US Central Command reported its strikes targeted Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran claimed its actions were in response to the US bombardment. These exchanges threaten to undermine the MoU brokered by Pakistan and Qatar, which sought to de-escalate conflict and address broader issues between the two nations.

The United States launched new airstrikes against Iran early Thursday, targeting approximately 90 military sites and port facilities, in retaliation for Iran's recent attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar. U.S. President Donald Trump stated these strikes were to degrade Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation and warned of further escalation if shipping attacks continue. Iranian state media reported explosions in various locations, including near the Bushehr nuclear power plant and port cities. Trump declared the interim ceasefire agreement "over" but allowed negotiations to continue, while Iran's deputy foreign minister viewed his remarks as an admission of policy failure. These escalating actions have raised fears of a renewed conflict and caused oil prices to surge.

The United States conducted a second night of air attacks on Iran, targeting military sites in Tehran and southern cities. These strikes, which killed at least 14 people, were a response to Iran's earlier attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command stated the aim was to degrade Iran's ability to attack shipping. Despite the escalation, neither side has officially ended an interim peace agreement, though President Trump suggested it was "over." The tit-for-tat strikes have significantly slowed shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, trapping thousands of sailors. The attacks occurred during the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei.

Syrian authorities announced the arrest of several suspects accused of recent explosions in Damascus, including those that occurred during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit. The Interior Ministry stated that security forces dismantled the entire cell responsible for the bombings, which involved explosive devices planted in a garbage bin and a parked car. These blasts killed one person and injured 36 others. An official from the Internal Security Forces identified the Islamic State group as being behind the attacks, though the group has not claimed responsibility. These incidents pose a challenge to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa's efforts to assert control and gain international support as the country rebuilds from years of civil war.

Syrian authorities announced the arrest of a cell responsible for recent bombings in Damascus, stating the suspects are affiliated with ISIL. The explosions occurred on Tuesday, the same day French President Emmanuel Macron was visiting the capital, resulting in one death and 36 injuries. This incident follows a previous bombing the week prior that killed 10 people. Syrian interior security officials confirmed preliminary investigations indicate the cell’s connection to IS. The suspects were apprehended in simultaneous raids across Damascus and its surrounding areas. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities plan to reveal the identities and links of the arrested individuals once completed.

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that this year's Nato summit, hosted by Turkey in Ankara, demonstrated "a huge sense of unity" and secured procurement plans valued at over $50 billion. These deals are intended to help member states meet the agreed-upon defense spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035. The investments will bolster Nato's capabilities in areas such as precision strike, air and missile defense, uncrewed systems, advanced technologies, and intelligence. Rutte also defended US President Donald Trump's criticisms of the alliance. The procurement plans aim to enhance interoperability and incorporate AI models for warfighting.

The United States launched over 80 strikes on Iran in response to Tehran's attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump stated the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran is "over," though he might allow peace talks to continue. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have retaliated by targeting US assets in neighboring countries. Both nations accuse each other of violating the June MoU, which initiated a 60-day peace negotiation process. The strikes, which targeted Iranian air defense systems, command and control networks, and small boats, represent the largest US attacks since April. Iran's actions were reportedly in response to ships ignoring warnings to change direction while transiting the strait.

Kyiv was rocked by a series of explosions early Wednesday morning as Russia continued its attacks on the Ukrainian capital. Journalists reported hearing a large blast before air raid sirens sounded, followed by four more. According to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, missile strikes caused fires in warehouses in one district and a non-residential building in another. Two people were injured, with one requiring hospitalization. These events occurred while NATO leaders were meeting for a summit in Turkey.

President Donald Trump unexpectedly launched strikes on Iran and revoked oil export licenses during a NATO summit in Turkey. The summit, intended to focus on increased defense spending and support for Ukraine, was overshadowed by these actions. The strikes were a retaliation for attacks on three merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz. European allies expressed concern about Trump's unilateral actions and his past criticisms of NATO. Despite efforts by NATO leaders to highlight increased defense investments, Trump also raised grievances about defense burdens and territorial claims, including Greenland. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used the summit to reiterate his appeal for Ukraine's NATO membership.

One person was killed and 36 were injured in explosions that occurred in central Damascus on Tuesday. The blasts struck near the Ministry of Tourism and the Four Seasons Hotel. Syrian authorities stated that one bomb was placed in a car and a second in a rubbish container, both of which exploded while preparations were underway to dismantle them. French President Emmanuel Macron, who was visiting Damascus, continued his planned engagements and stated that Syria must not be destabilized by the attacks. Macron had already departed the hotel before the explosions. This incident occurred shortly after a separate attack in Damascus that killed ten people.

At the conclusion of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, US President Donald Trump announced new arms sales to NATO allies and Ukraine. These sales will include advanced air defense systems, signaling an increase in military partnership. Trump stated that as European nations rebuild their militaries, American equipment will be the primary beneficiary, projecting $3 billion in new defense investment between European and US contractors. A significant part of this includes a planned Lockheed Martin Patriot missile maintenance facility in Europe. This development suggests a potential shift in Trump's stance towards the alliance, following previous criticisms.

At a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, US President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with NATO allies, specifically criticizing Spain and reiterating his desire to acquire Greenland. Trump called Spain a "terrible partner" and threatened to cease trade relations due to Spain's actions during the US-Israel war on Iran, which included denying the use of joint military bases and closing airspace to US planes involved in operations against Iran. Spain's Prime Minister's office dismissed Trump's statements as typical and affirmed excellent relations with Washington, noting that trade is driven by private companies and that individual EU members cannot be singled out for trade actions. The European Union expects the US to uphold its trade obligations with the bloc.

President Trump expressed frustration with Iranian negotiators, accusing them of dishonesty and cheating, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has emerged as a dominant force in Tehran. Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, authority in Iran has become dispersed, with the IRGC holding significant power, making it unclear if negotiators can commit to an agreement. Experts suggest Iran's leadership believes escalation is essential for survival, using regional instability to gain leverage and distract from domestic issues. This fractured power structure in Tehran raises concerns for Washington, as different factions may have conflicting interpretations and willingness to implement any deal.

At the NATO summit in Ankara, Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with US President Donald Trump, who agreed to stay in touch after Starmer steps down. Starmer stated that maintaining this connection is part of his responsibility to the UK-US relationship. Trump thanked the UK for its defense spending contributions, placing it second over the last decade in real terms. Despite recent tense exchanges, Starmer indicated they had "got along really well" over the longer term. Starmer also declined to comment on Trump's recent criticisms of the UK and his own leadership, instead highlighting the country's improved standing. He also addressed potential future defense spending policies under a potential Andy Burnham administration.

Nato leaders are convening in Ankara, Turkey, for a summit that began this morning. The meeting was intended to be brief and minimize potential disruptions from the unpredictable US president. However, prior to arriving in Ankara yesterday, President Trump renewed his calls for the United States to take over Greenland. He also threatened to withdraw American troops from Europe. The summit aims to address key issues among member nations, despite the ongoing tensions and pronouncements from the US president.

Two improvised explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons hotel in Damascus on Tuesday, wounding at least 18 people, according to Syrian authorities. The explosions occurred while French President Emmanuel Macron was meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. Macron's visit, the first by a major Western leader to Syria since the toppling of Bashar al-Assad, was not interrupted. However, the blasts are considered a setback for Syria's new leadership, which is attempting to project stability and attract foreign investment. The Syrian interior ministry stated an investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the attacks, which follow a recent IED explosion in a Damascus cafe.

Two explosions occurred near the Four Seasons hotel in Damascus on Tuesday, where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying during a state visit. Eighteen people, including four police officers, were injured when improvised explosive devices, placed in a car and a garbage can, detonated after being discovered by security forces. Macron was not in his hotel at the time and continued his visit with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, stating his visit proceeded as planned. Syrian authorities confirmed the explosions were outside Macron's security perimeter and posed no direct threat to his visit. This incident follows another blast in Damascus earlier in the week, which France condemned as a terrorist attack.

Eighteen people, including four police officers, were injured in central Damascus when two explosive devices detonated near the Four Seasons hotel. The blasts occurred during a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, who was meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace. Macron's officials stated he was safe and did not hear the explosions. Videos on social media showed smoke and flames rising from a vehicle following the incident. The French president's visit to Syria was proceeding as planned, with his next stop being Turkey for a NATO summit.

At the NATO summit in Ankara, US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with the alliance, citing concerns over European defense spending and perceived lack of support from allies during the US-Iran conflict. Trump also reiterated his desire for the US to control Greenland, a stance rejected by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The summit, attended by leaders of the mutual defense alliance, is addressing defense budgets and the Russia-Ukraine war. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged members to present clear plans for increased defense spending amidst growing threats. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to seek further military support for his country's air defenses.

Arriving at the NATO summit in Ankara, President Trump revived his proposal for the U.S. to acquire Greenland, stating that Denmark's refusal has "hurt" his relationship with the alliance. He also threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from Europe, citing concerns over immigration and energy policies and suggesting European allies do not contribute enough to defense. Trump criticized the UK's stance on the Iran conflict, implying it contributed to the Prime Minister's downfall. He reiterated his belief that NATO allies are not spending enough on defense and are too reliant on the U.S. European allies are attempting to address defense spending concerns through multi-billion-pound collaborations.

NATO leaders are convening in Ankara, Turkey, for a summit marked by the United States' perceived withdrawal from its traditional security role in Europe. President Trump is demanding "loyalty" from allies, particularly after some countries refused to allow U.S. forces to use their bases for attacks on Iran. The summit's theme is a "stronger Europe in a stronger NATO," with discussions expected to focus on defense spending, industry boosts, and continued support for Ukraine. The U.S. is also reviewing its troop presence in Europe, contingent on European defense efforts and base access. The meeting aims to clarify the vision for a "NATO 3.0" and address the evolving trans-Atlantic bond.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged NATO to admit Ukraine, arguing that the country's developed defensive capabilities from its war with Russia would strengthen the alliance. Speaking at a NATO defense industry forum, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine possesses most necessary weapons and seeks European assistance in developing an alternative to US Patriot systems for ballistic missile defense. He highlighted Ukraine's success in striking Russian economic targets, even in Siberia, and noted that Russia's advance rate has significantly slowed. Despite Ukraine's military advancements, NATO allies, including the US, are hesitant to admit a country at war with Russia. Zelenskyy also emphasized Europe's need for its own anti-ballistic missile production capabilities due to dwindling US Patriot interceptor stocks.

NATO leaders are convening in Ankara, Turkiye, for a summit where discussions will focus on translating increased defense spending into tangible capabilities. US President Donald Trump is renewing pressure on member states regarding defense contributions, while European nations are expected to announce significant new military contracts, building on last year's agreement to increase spending to 5% of GDP. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will attend, seeking additional Patriot air defense systems amid intensifying Russian attacks. The summit also includes representatives from non-member states like South Korea and Gulf countries, and is taking place amidst US military withdrawals from Europe. The primary objective is to project alliance unity despite underlying disagreements.

European nations are increasingly concerned that the United States may be unable to fulfill its arms supply commitments to NATO allies. Depleted US stockpiles, due to conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, have led to delays and cancellations of key weapon deliveries, including Tomahawk missiles and Patriot PAC-3 interceptors. This situation, highlighted by Ukraine's inability to intercept numerous Russian missiles, forces European countries to consider alternative methods for their defense. While the US has pushed for increased European defense spending, questions arise about the future reliability of American arms shipments. European diplomats acknowledge that building new defense production lines will take years, creating a vulnerable period of self-reliance.

Russian forces launched air strikes on Kyiv for the second time in a week, resulting in at least nine deaths and 46 injuries, including five children. Rescuers are working to find survivors trapped under rubble in partly demolished apartment blocks. The attacks occurred on the eve of a NATO summit in Turkey, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was expected to meet with US President Donald Trump. Hours before the strikes, Zelensky had warned of a potential second "massive strike" on Kyiv, following previous attacks that killed 30 people. Russian ballistic missiles damaged buildings, apartment complexes, warehouses, and a garage workshop across the city.

Russia launched ballistic missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's Kyiv region on Monday, resulting in at least eight deaths and dozens of injuries. The strikes hit apartment blocks and other buildings, with rescue crews working to extract residents. This assault marks the second major attack on the capital and its surroundings in less than a week, occurring just before a NATO summit in Turkey where US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy are expected to discuss the war. The article also notes increased long-range attacks from both sides, with Ukraine targeting Russian energy facilities and Russia reporting drone attacks near Moscow and a Ukrainian strike impacting electricity in Crimea. Fighting continues for the strategic eastern town of Kostyantynivka.

Russia launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Ukraine's Kyiv region on Monday, resulting in at least eight fatalities and dozens of injuries. This attack marks the second assault on the capital and its surrounding areas in under a week. The strikes occurred just before a NATO summit in Turkey, where US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky are scheduled to discuss the ongoing conflict. The increased long-range attacks by both sides highlight the expanding scope of the war, which began over four years ago with Russia's full-scale invasion.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has urged all 32 member nations to present "clear, concrete and credible plans" to meet the alliance's defense spending targets at the upcoming summit in Ankara, Turkiye. This call comes as the United States, which is reducing its security role in Europe, is pressing allies to increase their contributions. Last year, NATO members agreed to invest five percent of their GDP on defense, including infrastructure crucial for troop movement. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker indicated that there would be consequences for allies lacking clear spending plans, with President Trump expecting urgent action. Despite some nations struggling to meet even the previous two percent target, Rutte noted that European allies and Canada are projected to invest an additional $258 billion in defense by 2025.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend the Nato summit in Ankara to rally European allies and emphasize Britain's commitment to defense spending. The meeting aims to address concerns that Donald Trump's threats over defense contributions could destabilize the alliance. Downing Street stated leaders will focus on building a "stronger and more European Nato" to counter Russian threats and support Ukraine. The UK government has pushed back against US criticism regarding defense spending, asserting it meets its commitments and is a top defense contributor. Starmer, nearing the end of his premiership, will seek to demonstrate fairer burden-sharing among allies, despite the UK ranking lower in GDP percentage spent on defense.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has demanded that member nations present "clear, concrete and credible plans" to meet the alliance's defense spending targets at the upcoming summit in Ankara. This comes as the United States reduces its security role in Europe and urges allies to increase their financial contributions. Last year, NATO agreed on a goal for members to invest 5% of their GDP on defense, a target some countries are still struggling to reach. Rutte indicated that there are "ways" to convince reluctant members to comply, with U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker hinting at unspecified consequences for those who do not step up. Despite these demands, Rutte noted that European allies and Canada have shown impressive increases in defense spending.

French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Syria for talks with President Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking the first visit by a Western European leader since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in 2024. Macron stated his commitment to a sovereign, united, and peaceful Syria. The visit, accompanied by a business delegation, aims to discuss regional security and investment opportunities. Both leaders are scheduled to attend the NATO summit in Turkiye, where al-Sharaa is expected to meet with US President Donald Trump. France previously supported Syria's new leadership, urging the lifting of sanctions, despite initial skepticism from other Western governments regarding the new government's inclusiveness and democratic transition.

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Damascus on Monday, marking the first trip by a Western European head of state since Syria's new authorities assumed power. The visit follows President Ahmed al-Sharaa's efforts to improve Syria's international standing and rebuild the nation after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Macron stated his purpose was to reaffirm France's commitment to a sovereign, united, and peaceful Syria. He and President al-Sharaa visited the Umayyad Mosque after a working dinner, with further official meetings scheduled for Tuesday. This visit is significant as the last French presidential visit was in 2009, prior to the Syrian civil war that began in 2011.

French President Emmanuel Macron has become the first major Western leader to visit Syria since Bashar al-Assad's ouster in 2024. Macron arrived in Damascus on Monday to discuss regional security, business, and investment opportunities with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and a business delegation. This visit follows a period of relative calm in the Middle East and precedes Macron's travel to the NATO summit in Ankara, where al-Sharaa is also expected to attend. France has supported Syria's new leadership, despite initial skepticism from some Western governments regarding al-Sharaa's past affiliations and concerns about democratic transition, women's and minorities' rights. Macron previously hosted al-Sharaa in Paris, advocating for the lifting of sanctions, most of which have since been removed.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on Wednesday during the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey. The White House confirmed these meetings, which come as Ukraine seeks to re-engage Trump on the conflict with Russia, now in its fifth year. Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin recently spoke with Trump to congratulate him on the July Fourth holiday. Trump's discussions with Zelenskyy will focus on the war's front lines, with Ukraine aiming to highlight prospects for ending the conflict. Separately, Trump has publicly suggested Syria should combat Hezbollah, a notion al-Sharaa has reportedly dismissed. Trump will also meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and hold a press conference before returning to the U.S.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump held an 85-minute phone call on Saturday. During the conversation, Putin congratulated Trump on the 250th anniversary of US independence. The two leaders also discussed the situation in Ukraine, particularly in relation to Trump's upcoming attendance at the NATO summit in Turkey on July 7-8. This was according to Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov. The call focused on these key topics, with the Ukraine settlement being a natural point of discussion given the upcoming NATO meeting.

Syrian state media has announced that French President Emmanuel Macron will soon visit Syria, marking him as the first Western leader to do so since Bashar Assad's ouster in 2024. This visit follows Macron's meeting with Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Paris in May 2025, where Macron pledged to advocate for the lifting of sanctions on Syria, many of which have since been removed. While the exact date of Macron's trip is undisclosed, he is expected to be accompanied by French investors and company representatives. The visit comes as Syria faces immense challenges from a prolonged conflict, with significant infrastructure damage and a dire need for substantial financial aid for reconstruction and poverty reduction.

Nato's 32 member states will convene in Ankara, Turkey, for their annual summit on July 7-8. The meeting is expected to prioritize discussions on securing peace in Ukraine and the Middle East. Analysts suggest that ongoing conflicts in these regions, along with U.S. pressure on European allies to increase defense spending, may lead to Indo-Pacific security issues taking a secondary role. This is anticipated despite warnings from the Nato chief regarding China's connections with Russia. The summit will be Turkey's first time hosting since 2004.

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has been working to maintain US commitment to the alliance for nearly two years, using flattery to counter President Donald Trump's threats of withdrawal. Initially, Trump's focus was on increased defense spending by allies, a concern addressed at last year's summit with commitments to invest more. However, Trump remains dissatisfied, recently expressing disappointment over allies not joining the Iran war. Rutte presented a chart highlighting $1.2 trillion in allied spending since 2017, but Trump appeared unmoved. The article suggests the focus has shifted from financial contributions to actual military capabilities, particularly amid European concerns about Russia.

European NATO allies have largely compensated for US asset reductions in war contingency plans for Europe, according to Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe John Stringer. This assurance comes before the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, where allies aim to address recent US signals of a pivot away from the continent. Stringer stated that European allies have "stepped up" to fill the gaps left by adjustments in US forces in Europe. He characterized this as a sign of a "stronger Europe in a stronger Nato."

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended his country's NATO defense spending following renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump. Trump had previously called the spending balance within NATO "ridiculous" and "one-sided," specifically noting Germany's spending as "MUCH LOWER." In response, Merz stated that Germany plans to double its defense budget within four years, calling it the nation's greatest effort to strengthen defense capabilities. This exchange occurs as NATO leaders are scheduled to meet in Ankara next week. The article also mentions that NATO leaders previously agreed to spend 3.5 percent of their GDP on core defense items by 2035, an increase from the prior 2 percent goal.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended Germany's defense spending, responding to US President Donald Trump's criticism. Merz stated that Germany is doubling its defense budget within four years, calling it the greatest effort ever made to strengthen defense capabilities. This statement was made on Friday as NATO leaders prepare to meet in Ankara next week. The upcoming meeting aims for European nations to demonstrate increased commitment to continental defense, potentially setting aside disagreements with Trump on issues like Iran and Greenland. Merz asserted that Germany has no reason to shy away from discussing its defense spending record.

Ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara on July 7-8, Donald Trump has criticized the US relationship with the alliance, calling it "ridiculous" and "one sided." He stated on Truth Social that NATO is "not reciprocal" and that allies "were not there for us," particularly regarding the war in Iran where some countries restricted US base usage. Trump advocates for European nations to lead their own defense and has already reduced US commitments. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted Trump's disappointment with NATO allies' response to US operations in the Middle East, a point expected to be a significant topic at the upcoming summit of 32 member states.

The upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, beginning Tuesday, is anticipated to be a low-key event for European members focused on defense spending goals, with China observing from a distance. However, the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump introduces a significant variable, as it remains uncertain whether he will adopt a cooperative or confrontational stance. Early indications suggest Trump, who has previously criticized NATO's purpose and threatened U.S. withdrawal, will be the more critical version. Trump recently stated the U.S. spends more on NATO than any other country without receiving benefits, calling it "ridiculous." His unpredictable nature and past criticisms have left other NATO members apprehensive about the July 7-8 gathering in Ankara.