European defence and ‘the will to fight’: NATO countries must ‘beef up’ forces and political unity

Trump basked in flattery at The Hague—NATO chief Mark Rutte even calling him “daddy”—and claimed victory as allies pledged more defense spending. But beyond the praise, Trump struck a surprisingly reverent tone on NATO, a sharp turn from years of scorn. The summit was carefully choreographed: leaders massaged numbers to satisfy Trump, rolled out royal hospitality, and kept the event ever-so-brief, all while he arrived venting over the Iran-Israel ceasefire and left basking in diplomatic affection. For in-depth analysis and a deeper perspective, FRANCE 24’s Eve Irvine welcomes Dr. Sven Biscop, Director of the Europe in the World Programme at the Egmont Royal Institute for International Relations.