NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speaks during a press conference, at the NATO summit in The Hague, Netherlands June 25, 2025. Photo: REUTERS/Piroschka Van De Wouw)

Speaking to the press, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said: "With this plan, allies have agreed to invest 5% of GDP in defense. This is a significant commitment in response to significant threats to our security. It includes at least 3.5% of GDP invested in core defense requirements. The 3.5% is to fund our militaries and the equipment they need, from our air defenses to ammunition, drones, tanks, troops, and more. In addition to the 3.5% for core defense, the plan includes 1.5% of GDP that will go towards investment that supports our defense and security."

In their Joint Statement, NATO members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, declaring that an armed attack against one member is considered an attack against all. The statement does not mention Ukraine’s accession to NATO, but the countries agreed that Ukraine’s security and sovereignty are integral to the alliance's overall security. Member states also committed to including aid for Ukraine within their defense spending calculations.