NATO envoys stress unity, solidarity ahead of Ankara summit

Diplomatic representatives from NATO member states in Ankara on Monday emphasized alliance unity and collective resolve ahead of the July 7-8 summit, citing regional security threats and defense spending priorities.

Allied commitments to collective defense

Italy's Ambassador to Ankara Giuseppe Manzo told Anadolu that the summit convenes at a critical juncture for common security. "We are grateful for Türkiye’s leadership, we support it, and we are determined to work together for a successful summit that will address all the threats we face," he said. Manzo noted that Italy has deployed SAMP/T air defense systems to bolster the alliance's aerial defenses, adding that Rome takes pride in contributing to the security of a friend and ally.

The Netherlands' Ambassador Joep Wijnands stated that last year's summit in The Hague centered on increasing financial obligations for collective defense. "This year, it will be about how and in which areas we will use this budget," he said. Wijnands emphasized that security is never achieved alone, noting that Ankara understands this reality given its volatile regional position. "When we are able to remain united, we are the strongest alliance in the world," he said.

Messages of solidarity

Poland's Ambassador Maciej Lang described the upcoming meeting as an exceptional gathering of great importance for both Türkiye and the alliance as a whole. Lang thanked the hosts for their hospitality and coordination efforts. "I fully believe that the message of unity and solidarity rising from Ankara will once again reaffirm NATO’s unwavering will and its determination and resolve to act collectively in the face of changing security conditions," he said.

Bulgaria's Ambassador Anguel Tcholakov said the summit offers a valuable opportunity to reaffirm fundamental principles. "At a time when uncertainties, unprecedented threats, and challenges to the international order are increasing, this summit offers a highly valuable and important opportunity to clearly reaffirm our unity among allies, to demonstrate our determination and solidarity, and to show our unwavering commitment to our fundamental principles and values. We are stronger together," he said.

Defense spending and Ukraine support

Latvia's Ambassador Bahtijors Hasans said the Ankara summit demonstrates that allies are fulfilling commitments in concrete terms. Hasans noted that Riga became the first ally to legally mandate allocating at least 5 percent of GDP to defense beginning in 2027. "This demonstrates our determination. The summit must reaffirm NATO’s security, unity, collective defense, the strengthening of Article 5, and transatlantic ties. Allies are increasing defense spending because, alongside terrorism, Russia continues to be the greatest threat to the transatlantic region. Europe and Canada are already doing more," he said.

Hasans underlined that support for Ukraine remains vital to transatlantic security. "Support for Ukraine is vital, because Ukraine’s security directly contributes to the security of the entire transatlantic area," he said. Latvia has allocated 0.25 percent of its GDP to Ukraine for several years and will continue this practice, according to the ambassador.

The 2026 NATO Summit will convene in Ankara on July 7-8. Türkiye last hosted the alliance's heads of state in Istanbul in 2004. The gathering comes as member states implement increased defense spending targets adopted at previous summits.