At the NATO summit held in Ankara, Türkiye, on July 7, 2026, NATO allies revealed arms deals worth at least $72 billion, signaling increased defense spending to bolster Europe's security. These contracts include European countries purchasing surveillance drones from US company Northrop Grumman and NATO acquiring planes from Sweden's Saab. NATO chief Mark Rutte emphasized the commitment of European countries to enhance military budgets and take greater responsibility for continental defense amid ongoing tensions with Russia.

US President Donald Trump, attending the summit, announced the lifting of US sanctions on Türkiye that were imposed in 2020 due to Ankara's purchase of Russian S-400 air defense missiles. Trump also expressed willingness to sell F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye, a move that could resolve a longstanding bilateral issue. However, US law currently prohibits F-35 sales to Türkiye as long as it retains the S-400 system, with discussions ongoing about potentially relocating the Russian system to a third country.

Despite these developments, Trump voiced disappointment with NATO, singling out Britain, France, Germany, and Italy for insufficient support in the US war with Iran. He stated that the US "weren't treated well" by allies but reiterated that the US did not want or need their help. Trump also noted a souring in his relationship with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, attributing it to her refusal to assist the US regarding Iran.

The summit also featured commitments to support Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy securing pledges from European backers to provide at least €70 billion (US$80 billion) in military aid annually for 2026 and 2027. Zelenskyy urged NATO to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses following a deadly Russian bombardment.

These events underscore a significant shift in NATO's defense posture and highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the US, Europe, Türkiye, and Iran.

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