NATO Considers Scrapping Its Annual Summits
The alliance is considering changing its current practice of holding annual summits, with one option being to reduce their frequency or abandon them altogether from 2028.
According to several diplomatic sources, the discussion is partly a response to strained relations with US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticized allies for low defense spending and questioned US commitments within the alliance.
Several officials also point to a broader concern: frequent summits create pressure for rapid, media-friendly decisions that can undermine strategic planning. Some member states are therefore proposing a biennial summit cycle.
No decision has yet been taken. Secretary General Mark Rutte will have the final say.
The timing of future summits is also under discussion, with the 2027 meeting potentially moving to the autumn.