NATO Ankara summit to test EU rearmament speed amid US burden-shifting demands (euobserver.com)

• US President Trump demands burden-shifting from European NATO allies
• EU launches €800bn SAFE programme to ramp up defence production
• US Defense Secretary Hegseth announces review of US military presence in Europe

"The upcoming NATO summit in Ankara (July 7-8, 2026) is dominated by US demands for European allies to assume more defence burdens. US President Trump has criticized European NATO members for insufficient support of his Iran policy and is pushing for 'burden-shifting' rather than 'burden-sharing'. The EU is attempting to ramp up defence production through the €800bn SAFE programme to reduce reliance on US equipment. US Defense Secretary Hegseth announced a six-month review of US military presence in Europe. NATO Secretary General Rutte expects major arms deals to be signed on the sidelines."