A crucial day for Europe: What is NATO planning behind closed doors in Brussels?

At the meeting, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and defense ministers and their deputies from the Alliance’s 32 member countries will discuss key issues for collective security, including support for Ukraine, investment in defense and the military industry, as well as Arctic security.

This year, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth did not attend; instead, his deputy, Elbridge Colby, represented the United States. Following the ministerial meeting, a session with Ukraine’s new Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov is also expected.

Rutte is scheduled to address the media at 3:00 PM to present the conclusions of today’s meeting. A meeting of the contact group supporting Ukraine has also been announced.

NATO defense ministers are meeting today to review progress since the Hague Summit, including how Alliance members are fulfilling commitments to increase defense spending and boost production in the defense industry, strengthen deterrence and defense, and maintain support for Ukraine.

Discussions will also cover preparations for the next NATO Summit in Ankara, scheduled for July 7–8, 2026. Ministers are also expected to exchange views on the implementation of all NATO-led missions and activities, including KFOR, the Alliance’s longest-running and currently largest mission.