NATO Leaders Meet in Ankara After Trump Revives Iran and Greenland Disputes

• NATO unveiled at least $50 billion in arms deals to show European members are increasing defense spending and reducing reliance on the U.S., addressing Trump's longstanding criticisms
• Trump singled out Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a former close ally, saying their relationship 'became a little bad' due to Italy's alleged refusal to help during the Iran conflict
• The U.S. has announced troop withdrawals from Europe and cut forces assigned to NATO defense plans, including an aircraft carrier and fighter jets, while conducting a six-month review of its military presence

Summary

NATO leaders convened in Ankara on July 7-8, 2026, amid renewed tensions as U.S. President Donald Trump criticized European allies and threatened further troop withdrawals. The summit's primary objective was securing Trump's re-commitment to the alliance.

Key Developments:

Trump expressed deep disappointment with NATO, stating the U.S. is "not treated well" and questioning why America spends "hundreds of billions of dollars" while allies weren't supportive during the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. He accused European nations of refusing airspace and base access during the conflict, though European officials maintain they honored commitments despite not being consulted.

Trump specifically criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a former close ally, saying their relationship "became a little bad" due to her refusal to help with Iran. He also revived demands for U.S. control of Greenland, which Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen firmly rejected.

Defense Spending:

To address Trump's concerns, NATO unveiled at least $50 billion in new arms deals, demonstrating European commitment to increased defense spending and reduced reliance on the U.S.

Strategic Shifts:

The Trump administration is pressing Europeans to assume primary responsibility for conventional European defense as the U.S. refocuses on the Indo-Pacific. America has withdrawn troops, reduced NATO-assigned forces (including aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and drones), and launched a six-month review of European military presence.

Outcome:

NATO ambassadors approved a summit declaration affirming "ironclad commitment" to collective defense, pending leader endorsement. European officials emphasized the need for predictable transitions to avoid defense gaps exploitable by Russia.