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European NATO Pledges 20% Defense Boost, Tougher Russia Sanctions

6/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

European leaders said the Berlin meeting directly answered President Donald Trump's demand for a more European-focused NATO.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted the E5 ministers, who pledged tighter sanctions on Russia, extra aid for Ukraine, and reinforcement of NATO’s European pillar after Russian setbacks.
They reported a 20 % rise in 2025 defence spending, urged deep-precision strike development, and flagged disputes over a Strait of Hormuz mission and Russia peace-talk leadership.

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Story summary

European leaders said the Berlin meeting directly answered President Donald Trump's demand for a more European-focused NATO.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted the E5 ministers, who pledged tighter sanctions on Russia, extra aid for Ukraine, and reinforcement of NATO’s European pillar after Russian setbacks.
They reported a 20 % rise in 2025 defence spending, urged deep-precision strike development, and flagged disputes over a Strait of Hormuz mission and Russia peace-talk leadership.