NATO leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to collective defense and strengthened their support for Ukraine in a declaration concluded at a summit. The communiqué, signed by all member states, including the United States, emphasized the alliance’s dedication to collective security under Article 5.

The declaration assured support for Ukraine, promising 70 billion euros ($80 billion) in military aid from Europe and Canada for the current year and next. This decision is crucial as President Trump has reduced American funding for Ukraine, insisting that European nations should bear more responsibility for aiding Kyiv against Russian aggression.

The summit ended with reassurance for NATO and its partners, especially Ukraine, as leaders endorsed the trans-Atlantic bond and declared, “An attack on one is an attack on all.” This aimed to alleviate concerns about Mr. Trump’s commitment to European defense in case of a crisis.

However, the declaration did not reiterate NATO’s promise to grant Ukraine membership, a stance Mr. Trump opposes. The 70 billion euro aid includes 30 billion sourced from an EU loan and contributions already pledged by individual countries. Additionally, NATO had earlier vowed 40 billion euros to Ukraine last year, now extended through this year and next.

Mr. Trump’s calls for more European spending on defense and his strategic repositioning of American assets towards the Indo-Pacific have instigated changes within the alliance. The communiqué outlined the vision for a “modernized alliance” with increased European responsibility and reduced U.S. involvement.

The document expressed that European allies and Canada, collaborating with the United States, are taking on more defense duties within the alliance. It highlighted the objective of “a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO.”

Steven Erlanger, the chief diplomatic correspondent in Europe, reports from Berlin. With experience across more than 120 countries, including Thailand, France, Israel, Germany, and the former Soviet Union, Erlanger provides insights on diplomatic affairs.