NATO Unity Masks Deep Divisions Over Threat Priorities and Defense Spending

At the NATO summit in Ankara, analyst Mariyan Karagyozov said the alliance projects unity, but members differ sharply on what they consider the greatest security threats. He quoted, "Винаги когато има една голяма международна организация, каквато е НАТО, в която участват над 30 държави, е много трудно да се намери общото решение. Различията при международните организации обаче винаги се крият зад общата фасада."

According to Karagyozov, the United States emphasizes China and the Indo‑Pacific, while Poland, Germany and the Baltic states see Russia as the primary danger. The southern flank focuses on illegal migration and security in North Africa. These divergent threat perceptions shape military modernization: the eastern flank pushes for more tanks, artillery and armored vehicles; southern members prioritize naval capabilities; the United States stresses technological competition with China.

He noted that higher defence budgets are interpreted differently—some states aim for specific capabilities rather than absolute spending levels—and highlighted competition between U.S. and European defence industries, citing the EU’s SAFE programme that earmarks two‑thirds of funds for European manufacturers. Karagyozov pointed to opportunities for Bulgaria, whose location on NATO’s eastern flank could be leveraged for mobility projects such as new Danube bridges and strategic energy pipelines, enhancing its role within the alliance.