NATO Summit Crisis: Trump’s Article 5 Doubts & Implications for Global Security

Key Developments: NATO at a Crossroads
1. Trump’s Article 5 Skepticism
Trump suggested the U.S. might not defend NATO members failing to meet spending targets, undermining the bedrock collective security principle (Article 5).
Historically, Article 5 was invoked only once – after 9/11 – making this a pivotal shift in U.S. alliance commitments.

2. Defence Spending Crisis
Just 11 of 32 members meet NATO’s current 2% GDP defence spending target.
Trump demands 5% GDP spending – a move resisted by members like Spain, which rejected the new goal despite summit pressure.

3. Ukraine & Russia Fallout
Zelenskyy sidelined to a dinner meeting due to tensions with Trump, signaling reduced Western support.
Summit aimed to deter Russia but exposed cracks in NATO unity instead.

4. Iran Strikes Complicate Agenda
U.S. bombing of Iranian sites diverted summit focus, highlighting unilateral U.S. actions over NATO consensus.


Why This Matters for India
Strategic Alliances: NATO’s instability impacts global power balances, affecting India’s partnerships with Russia and the West.
Regional Security: Iran-Pakistan ties could intensify regional tensions, impacting India’s security.
Exam Relevance: Directly linked to UPSC GS Paper II (global groupings) and current affairs for SSC/PSC.


Key NATO Concepts for Exams
Article 5: Collective defence clause – “attack on one is attack on all.”
Article 4: Consultation mechanism when a member’s security is threatened.
Origins: Founded in 1949 to counter Soviet expansion; Marshall Plan paved the way.
Funding: Direct contributions (shared costs) + indirect (national defence budgets).


Sample Q&A for Exam Prep
Q1: Which NATO article embodies its collective defence principle?
A1: Article 5 – mandates collective response to attacks on any member.
Q2: How many NATO members currently meet the 2% GDP defence spending target?
A2: Only 11 out of 32 member nations.
Q3: What was the sole instance of Article 5 being invoked?
*A3: After the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States in 2001.*
Q4: How did the Marshall Plan influence NATO’s formation?
*A4: It promoted US-Europe economic cooperation to counter Soviet influence, setting NATO’s foundation.*
Q5: Why did Spain reject NATO’s new spending target ahead of the 2024 summit?
A5: Spanish PM Sánchez asserted Spain’s sovereignty over defence budget decisions.