America News Agency

The Ankara Declaration was issued following the 36th NATO Summit of Heads of State and Government. In the declaration, allied nations reaffirmed their commitment to collective defense while making new commitments to increase defense spending, strengthen the defense industry, and continue support for Ukraine.

The leaders once again emphasized their commitment to the principle of collective defense under Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, reiterating the message that "An attack against one Ally shall be considered an attack against all Allies." The declaration stated that NATO's unity and solidarity remain the cornerstone of the Alliance's security.

The declaration noted that efforts to strengthen deterrence and defense capabilities against the threat posed by Russia to Euro-Atlantic security, as well as against terrorism, will continue. It also stated that European Allies and Canada invested more than $139 billion in additional funding for core defense requirements in 2025, while new defense procurement programs worth more than $50 billion were announced at the Ankara Summit.

NATO members also announced that they will expand cooperation to increase defense industrial production capacity, remove barriers to defense trade among Allies, and develop new technologies. The declaration stated that investments will be increased in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space technologies, unmanned systems, integrated air and missile defense, and precision strike capabilities.

Support for Ukraine also featured prominently in the Ankara Declaration. NATO members reaffirmed their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and pledged to provide €70 billion in military equipment, training, and assistance in 2026. The declaration also set the objective of maintaining at least the same level of support in 2027.

The leaders also reiterated that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and called for full respect for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The declaration concluded by thanking Türkiye for hosting the summit, while the Allies expressed their hope of meeting again at the next NATO Summit.