NATO is the world’s most important defensive alliance and a guarantor of our security. Particularly in a time when Russia is continuing to pursue its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine with brutal force, is building up its military and is seeking to destabilise the Euro-Atlantic security architecture, the North Atlantic Alliance must remain united, be capable of action and maintain strong deterrence.

The focus of the meeting is on three key issues: fair burden-sharing among Allies, strengthening Allies' defence industries and firm support for Ukraine.

Five percent for our security

Against the background of the threat posed by Russia, Allies at their last summit in The Hague in 2025 made a joint commitment to increase their investment in defence, including in defence-related infrastructure, to five percent of GDP by 2035.

Germany is leading the way: By exempting defence expenditure from the debt brake, the groundwork has been laid for achieving this target. Germany has more than tripled its defence expenditure since 2014, and more than doubled it over the past four years since 2022. Germany is therefore on track to already reaching the five percent target as early as 2029.

Reliable support for Ukraine

The images of Russian rockets and drones bringing destruction, death and suffering to Ukraine every day and every night are clear proof that Putin is not ready to engage in serious negotiation, but instead is choosing escalation. This is why Germany and its partners will increase the pressure on Russia and continue providing assistance to Ukraine.

The NATO Summit will send a strong message of support for Ukraine. Canada and the European Allies are set to formally agree on a high level of military assistance for both the current and the coming year. Foreign Minister Wadephul had proposed doing so at the NATO Foreign Ministerial in Helsingborg on 21 and 22 May. The message to Moscow is clear: Putin should not count on us reducing our support. We stand united, and we will stand by Ukraine in the long term. The only way to achieve equitable and durable peace in Ukraine is through negotiations.

Fair burden-sharing in the Alliance

Also on the agenda of the meeting in Ankara is how NATO Allies can further strengthen their defence capabilities. The focus in this regard will be on fair burden-sharing. One thing is clear: Europe is already now assuming greater responsibility for its own security – by ramping up defence expenditure, by investing in new capabilities and armament and by enhancing troop readiness. The ultimate aim is a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO.

Strengthening the defence industry sector

The summit will also discuss how Allies’ defence industries can be further strengthened. Because previous years have shown that security requires production capabilities, capacities and knowhow. Allies must be in a position to make available munitions, air defence, spare parts and other military materiel quickly, reliably and in sufficient quantities.

To ensure this, closer cooperation, faster procurement and reliable long-term contracts are needed. A strong industrial base is key, in order to guarantee Allied defence and deterrence, as well as support for Ukraine.

NATO Member Countries and partners will gather in Ankara

Foreign Minister Wadephul will travel with Federal Chancellor Merz to Ankara. At the summit, he will accompany the Federal Chancellor to his meetings and will attend a working session of the NATO-Ukraine Council, among others. On the margins of the summit, the Foreign Minister will also hold bilateral talks with Allies and other participants.