NATO summit in Ankara underscores renewed mission against Russian aggression

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the NATO summit in Ankara was “a source of great pride and joy,” noting the many thank‑you calls from leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, and praising the hospitality shown during the opening ceremony and subsequent events. He also highlighted the six‑year anniversary of the Hagia Sophia’s reopening for worship and expressed happiness over Spain’s recent World Cup victory.

Former U.S. ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker described the summit as a “great success” because NATO has refocused on its core task of deterring Russian threats. He cited Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the illegal annexations of Crimea and Georgia, and other aggressive actions as reasons for the alliance’s renewed resolve, while noting NATO’s recent expansion to include Finland and Sweden and increased defence spending among members.