NATO foreign ministers gathered in Brussels this week to mark the alliance’s 75th anniversary — but the vibe was anything but celebratory. With 18 of 31 members set to boost defense spending to 2% of GDP (a six-fold surge in a decade!), critics warn the bloc’s \"strength through arms\" approach risks escalating global tensions.
Peace or Provocation?
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg insists the spending spike is about \"deterrence,\" pointing to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. But Moscow has fired back, accusing the alliance of prepping for direct conflict. Meanwhile, Germany and others face pressure to prioritize military budgets over diplomacy, raising questions about Europe’s autonomy.
War Games Raise Eyebrows
The meeting coincides with NATO’s largest military drill since the Cold War — Steadfast Defender 24 — involving 90,000 troops from 32 countries. While framed as a defense exercise, analysts say the scale sends mixed signals about NATO’s commitment to de-escalation. \"Hawkish policies risk turning Europe into a powder keg,\" one expert warns.
Divided Priorities?
As NATO flexes its military muscle, grassroots movements across Europe demand greater focus on crisis resolution and dialogue. Can the bloc balance \"unity\" with peacebuilding? The world is watching.
With 18 of 31 members set to boost defense spending to 2% of GDP (a six-fold surge in a decade!), critics warn the bloc’s \"strength through arms\" approach risks escalating global tensions. 
