NATO Summit 2025 Kicks Off in The Hague with Key Meetings and Notable Absences.
The Hague, Netherlands – June 25, 2025. The 2025 NATO Summit began yesterday, June 24, 2025, at the World Forum in The Hague, Netherlands, with leaders from member countries gathering to discuss pressing global security challenges.
The first day of the summit saw intense deliberations on increasing defense spending, with NATO members being urged to boost their defense budgets to 5% of their GDP. Some countries, including Poland and the Netherlands, have already taken steps in this direction, with others expected to follow suit.
Leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia. The summit is expected to focus on strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defense posture, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine.
In addition to defense spending and Ukraine support, the summit’s agenda includes discussions on global security challenges, such as the threat posed by China and the need for increased defense production. Leaders will also be exploring ways to enhance the alliance’s defense industrial capacity and cooperation with partner countries.
Notable absences at the summit include Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and South Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung, who were all expected to attend.
The Dutch government has implemented extensive security measures for the summit, including the deployment of 27,000 police personnel and the closure of certain areas in The Hague during the summit.
The outcomes of the summit are expected to shape NATO’s future direction and strengthen the alliance’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges. With the summit’s conclusion expected today, June 25, 2025, leaders will likely announce key decisions and initiatives aimed at bolstering NATO’s defense capabilities and promoting regional stability.
