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Rubio: US Stays in NATO, Pushes Allies Toward 5% GDP Defense Goal
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![Maryna_kulakova]( "Maryna Kulakova")
-924c3c302c27387e19f6c44aaeb98745.png "Maryna Kulakova")
The United States has no intention of leaving NATO, but member states must significantly increase their defense spending—up to 5% of GDP—well above current US levels, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Rubio made the remarks during a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels on April 3.
“Remember, the US is part of NATO and remains as engaged as ever, despite the media hysteria seen around the world,” he stated.
Rubio emphasized that President Donald Trump “has made it clear” he supports NATO. “President Trump's made clear he supports NATO. We're going to remain in NATO,” Rubio said.
Rubio called on NATO members to substantially raise their defense budgets, urging a “realistic path” toward a 5% GDP commitment. Speaking on recent alliance priorities, Rubio emphasized the need for pragmatic steps, acknowledging that such increases would take time but were necessary to meet evolving security challenges.
He underscored that former US President Donald Trump had expressed continued backing for the alliance throughout both terms in office, clarifying that Trump’s criticism targeted insufficient defense readiness rather than NATO itself. According to Rubio, Trump “is not against NATO—he is against a NATO that lacks the strength and resources to meet its obligations.”
Rubio concluded by citing recent global developments as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong deterrent capabilities.
The United States currently allocates approximately 3.5% of its GDP to defense. NATO’s official spending guideline for member states remains at 2%.
Earlier, it was announced that US President Donald Trump announced a hike in tariffs on April 2, targeting nearly every country in the world, with a few exceptions, including Russia. This was reported by Axios, citing White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
