NATO confronts internal identity crisis following Ankara summit

The NATO summit held in Ankara on July 7‑8 highlighted growing internal tensions within the alliance. Leaders reaffirmed collective defence and pledged to increase defence spending toward the 5 % of GDP target, while continuing substantial military aid to Ukraine. However, many European members face economic and social constraints that make these commitments difficult to meet, exposing a gap between rhetoric and capacity.

Analysts say the alliance’s challenges go beyond external threats from Russia or China. A loss of shared values – democracy, liberal economic order, and respect for international law – is evident, especially in divergent responses to the Gaza conflict and rising protectionism among members. The summit underscored the need for NATO to redefine its purpose and adapt to a multipolar world where diplomatic, economic, and cyber dimensions are as crucial as military strength.