NATO Allies Spent Additional $41 Billion on Defense in Trump Era

NATO Allies Spent Additional $41 Billion on Defense in Trump Era

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg outlined NATO’s enduring value to the United States in a keynote speech at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, DC on Friday (14 September 2018). He set out three main reasons why the Alliance makes the US more secure, powerful, and prosperous.

Firstly, by preserving peace and stability in Europe, NATO provides the foundation for prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.

Secondly, the Alliance helps to spread democratic values that have benefited the world at large.

Thirdly, NATO Allies boost America’s military power, including with two million active service personnel, cutting-edge capabilities, world-class intelligence, and 28 US bases across Europe.

The Secretary General added that NATO Allies are making real progress on defense spending. Since President Trump took office, NATO Allies across Europe and Canada have spent an additional $41 billion on defense.

Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo assured the Secretary General that NATO is an indispensable pillar of American national security and the US will continue to work together to strengthen this important alliance.

My pleasure to again welcome NATO Secretary General @jensstoltenberg to @StateDept. @NATO is an indispensable pillar of American national security and we will continue to work together to strengthen this important alliance. pic.twitter.com/tLIytr6fzX

— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 13, 2018

“For nearly seven decades, the United States has been able to call upon its close Allies and friends in NATO,” NATO Secretary General said, adding that “we are far stronger together than apart.”