The NATO summit in Washington, marking the bloc's 75th anniversary, is underway with a focus on supporting Ukraine and strengthening collective security in a changing global landscape. President Joe Biden's leadership will be tested at this pivotal meeting.
Biden emphasized the threat posed by autocrats undermining global stability and terrorists plotting chaos. He condemned Putin's aggression in Ukraine, warning of his intentions to subjugate and destroy Ukrainian democracy and culture.
Discussions will center on increasing defense capabilities and production to aid Ukraine and meet NATO's own defense needs. Leaders including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and counterparts from South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand are present, highlighting efforts to counterbalance China.
The summit is taking place amidst electoral gains by European far-left and far-right parties skeptical of collective security. Former President Donald Trump, aiming for a return to office, remains critical of NATO's relevance.
