The NATO summit began in Ankara, Turkey, on July 7, 2026, but President Donald Trump's strike on Iran changed the agenda. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
The summit was originally intended to focus on increasing NATO defense spending, but Trump's military action against Iran diverted allies' attention. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Trump at the Bestepe Presidential Palace in Ankara. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte opened the Defense Industry Forum, attended by defense ministers and industry representatives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also arrived at the summit. He was seen looking out of his car window as he arrived for the NATO Summit in Ankara. Discussions are expected to cover actions against Iran and support for Ukraine.
Trump's strike on Iran has caused concern among NATO allies, as some countries believe it could lead to regional instability. The U.S. president said the strike was due to Iran's nuclear program. NATO leaders are trying to discuss the situation and formulate a joint response.
On the first day of the summit, the NATO Defense Industry Forum was held, exploring ways to enhance the alliance's military capabilities. Rutte in his speech reaffirmed NATO's commitment to collective defense. However, Trump's Iran strike became the main topic of the summit.
Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's aspiration to join NATO, but allies remain divided on the issue. Some countries support Ukraine's membership, while others consider it premature.
The summit will last two days, covering Iran, Ukraine, and defense spending. NATO leaders plan to adopt a joint communiqué.