NATO Leaders Gather in Ankara as Alliance Faces Critical Security Challenges

The two-day summit will focus on defence spending, support for Ukraine and strengthening NATO's long-term strategic posture.

Leaders of NATO member states have gathered in Ankara for the alliance's annual summit, where discussions are expected to centre on defence spending, continued military support for Ukraine and strengthening collective security amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The meeting comes as Russia continues missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, prompting renewed calls from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for stronger international support. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has described the current security environment as one of the alliance's most significant challenges in decades.

Member nations are also expected to review commitments to increase defence expenditure and accelerate military modernisation programmes. Several governments have announced plans to expand defence production and improve interoperability among allied forces.

The summit is taking place against a backdrop of evolving security concerns across Europe, including cyber threats, hybrid warfare and regional instability. Officials say the alliance must adapt to emerging challenges while maintaining unity among its 32 member states.

Analysts believe decisions taken during the Ankara summit will influence NATO's strategic direction for years to come, particularly regarding deterrence, defence investment and cooperation with partner nations.