NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that 23 of the alliance's 32 members are now meeting the 2% defense spending goal, marking a significant increase ahead of next month's summit.

This marks a record level of compliance with the defense spending target, a significant shift since the 2014 summit where members agreed to this goal, partly in response to Russian aggression in Crimea. The recent surge, with a defense spending increase of nearly 18% among European allies and Canada, underscores the alliance's strengthened commitment amid ongoing security challenges. This rise also addresses past criticisms, notably from former U.S. President Donald Trump, about insufficient contributions from NATO members.

The recent increase in defense spending among NATO members symbolizes [a renewed sense of urgency](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) and commitment to collective security. The invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces has notably intensified concerns within the alliance, prompting several countries to significantly boost their military budgets.

NATO's [target of spending 2% of GDP on defense was initially agreed upon at the 2014 summit](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) in Wales. At that time, the goal seemed ambitious for many members, [with only a few meeting the benchmark](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists). [Secretary-General Stoltenberg highlighted the progress](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) made over the past eight years, noting the shift in attitude towards defense spending as a necessity rather than an optional commitment.

"This is a strong demonstration of the unity and resolve of our alliance," Stoltenberg said. "The security environment we face today requires us to invest more and invest wisely. [The increase in defense budgets](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) is a clear response to the unpredictable and challenging threats we are facing."

Germany, traditionally cautious about military spending post-World War II, has recently announced substantial investments in its armed forces. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has pledged to [exceed the 2% GDP threshold](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) as part of a historic shift in German defense policy. This increased funding will support extensive modernization efforts, including the acquisition of new equipment and capabilities.

Similarly, other major European nations such as France and the United Kingdom have announced plans to ramp up their defense spending. France plans significant upgrades to its nuclear arsenal and cyber capabilities, while the UK is focusing on increasing its navy's operational readiness and expanding its cyber defense measures.

Canada, too, has made strides, with a [nearly 20% increase in defense spending since 2021](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists). This commitment highlights Canada's intention to bolster its contributions to NATO missions and reinforce its own North Atlantic security infrastructure.

While the increase in defense spending addresses many previous [criticisms](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists), it has also sparked debate within some member countries. Critics argue that the push for higher military budgets could divert resources away from vital social programs, particularly in the face of [economic challenges exacerbated](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) by the COVID-19 pandemic. Supporters stress the importance of robust defense capabilities in maintaining long-term peace and stability.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump was a vocal [critic of NATO members' defense spending](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists), often chastising allies for [not meeting the 2% target](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists). His administration frequently highlighted the disparity between U.S. contributions and those of other member nations. The new figures suggest a shift towards a more equitable distribution of defense burdens within the alliance.

Looking ahead, [the upcoming NATO summit](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) will further address the implications of [increased defense spending](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) and the continued need for coordination among member states. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the growing unpredictability on the global stage, NATO's focus on collective defense and resource-sharing remains a pivotal aspect of its strategy.

As the alliance prepares for the summit, the commitment of its members to meeting—and in some cases exceeding—the [2% GDP defense spending goal](https://www.foxnews.com/world/record-number-nato-members-reaching-defense-spending-goal-ukraine-war-persists) is seen as a testament to their dedication to ensuring collective security and responding to modern threats with renewed vigor and unity.