Fact Check: NATO's defense spending plan is 'very slow' according to Zelenskyy.

Fact Check: "NATO's defense spending plan is 'very slow' according to Zelenskyy"

What We Know

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently commented on NATO's defense spending plans, specifically stating that the timeline for member countries to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 is "very slow" (Sky News). This remark was made during an interview where he expressed concerns about the potential for Russia to attack a NATO member within the next five years, emphasizing the urgency for NATO to bolster its defense capabilities (This is the Coast).

Zelenskyy's assertion aligns with broader observations regarding NATO members' defense spending. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the pressing security threats from Russia, many NATO countries have been slow to meet the alliance's defense spending targets. For instance, as of 2023, only 11 out of 30 NATO countries were spending the recommended 2% of their GDP on defense, with significant disparities in spending levels across member states (IFO Institute).

Analysis

Zelenskyy's statement about NATO's defense spending being "very slow" is supported by various sources that highlight the sluggish pace of defense budget increases among NATO members. His comments reflect a sense of urgency given the geopolitical climate, particularly in light of Russia's military actions. The timeline for reaching a 5% GDP spending goal by 2035 has been criticized as insufficiently proactive in addressing immediate threats (Sky News).

The credibility of Zelenskyy's claim is reinforced by reports indicating that many NATO countries are still falling short of even the lower 2% target, which has been a longstanding benchmark for defense spending within the alliance (IFO Institute). This slow increase in defense budgets is particularly concerning given the heightened security risks posed by Russia, as noted by various analysts (This is the Coast).

However, it is important to note that while Zelenskyy's comments are accurate, they also reflect his position as a wartime leader advocating for increased support from NATO allies. This context may introduce a degree of bias, as his statements are aimed at galvanizing international support for Ukraine (Sky News).

Conclusion

The claim that NATO's defense spending plan is "very slow" according to Zelenskyy is True. His assertion is substantiated by evidence indicating that many NATO countries are not meeting their defense spending commitments in a timely manner, particularly in light of the ongoing threats from Russia. Zelenskyy's comments serve as a call to action for NATO members to accelerate their defense spending in response to the evolving security landscape.

Sources

1. NATO - Homepage
2. Zelenskyy says Putin could attack a NATO member 'within five years' to ...
3. Russia could attack a NATO member 'within five years ...
4. Was ist die NATO?
5. NATO Countries Slow to Increase Defense Spending
6. UK and NATO allies agree to increase defence spend to 5 ...
7. O que é a NATO?
8. Western aid to Ukraine very slow, says Zelenskyy - Deccan Herald