Canada has committed to increasing its national defense spending to meet the NATO target of two percent of GDP by 2032. This decision was announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the NATO summit in Washington, D.C. and follows the alliance’s benchmark set in 2014 in response to Russia’s actions in Crimea.
Trudeau stated, “As threats to peace and security become increasingly complex, Canada is ready to step up.” The country plans to achieve NATO’s budget goal by 2032 and will conduct regular reviews of defense policies, with a major update scheduled for 2028.
Canada’s defense spending plan, “Our North, Strong and Free,” includes investments of $73 billion Canadian dollars, focusing on Arctic security and underwater surveillance capabilities. Additionally, Canada has pledged $367 million in continued military assistance to Ukraine for training programs.
NATO’s Secretary General has affirmed Ukraine’s path toward membership, emphasizing ongoing support and funding commitments from the alliance.