Italy will require a full decade to meet NATO’s upcoming defense spending target of 5% of GDP, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Thursday, just days before alliance leaders convene for a pivotal summit in The Hague. The target, NATO’s most ambitious since the Cold War, aims to reshape the bloc’s posture amid growing threats from Russia.

The proposed goal would see 3.5% of national output allocated to military readiness and an additional 1.5% for critical infrastructure protection. Some members, particularly from the Baltics, are urging for implementation within five years.

Balancing Urgency with Realism

“We need more time,” Tajani said, emphasizing Rome’s support for NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s plan, while also stressing the need for “flexibility.” Italy, along with others in the Weimar+ group—including Germany, Spain, and the UK—favors a phased approach.

Tajani expressed optimism that a unified agreement could be reached before the June 24–25 summit, stating, “The goal is to strengthen our security in Europe, to strengthen NATO.”

Trump Pressure Shapes Europe’s Commitments

The 5% target is seen as a political win for U.S. President Donald Trump, who has long pressed Europe to shoulder more of its own defense burden. In past remarks, Trump suggested the U.S. might withhold protection from allies failing to meet their obligations.

Czech President Petr Pavel also urged the U.S. to adopt realistic expectations and timelines for Europe’s military buildup, though acknowledged Trump’s pressure has galvanized long-overdue changes.

Alliance Strives for Unity

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed the new targets but avoided setting a hard deadline. “I’m pretty confident that a joint position could be reached,” Rutte said, signaling cautious optimism ahead of the 32-member summit.

The spending plan is expected to serve as the foundation for NATO’s wider military buildup, including air defense expansion and support for Ukraine.