Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addressed the Senate floor today concerning NATO's ongoing summit in Washington.

"In 1949, twelve nations gathered here in Washington to establish the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Seventy-five years later, our nation’s capital welcomes NATO’s thirty-two members back for a pivotal summit," McConnell began.

He highlighted NATO's historical role: "The most successful military alliance in human history has shepherded the free world through serious challenges – from nuclear-armed Cold War through vicious terrorist attacks to a new chapter of multi-polar competition."

McConnell emphasized that American leadership has always been crucial: "This has always been a collective effort, but it has always required American leadership. And today, America and our allies face a serious test of resolve."

Addressing current global threats, he stated, "Russian aggression, Iran-backed terror, unchecked nuclear proliferation from North Korea, and China’s bid for hegemony aren’t just regional concerns. They’re facets of an increasingly coordinated threat to Western security and prosperity."

He warned about doubts surrounding NATO's commitment: "The trans-Atlantic alliance faces doubts at home and abroad about the credibility of our commitment to uphold this order. All NATO allies will share the risks if it is undone."

Despite these challenges, McConnell noted positive developments within NATO: "On the occasion of the Washington Summit, there are encouraging signs that NATO is rising to meet these challenges." He cited increased defense spending among European allies as evidence of this shift.

"Across Europe," he continued, "America’s allies are investing 18% more on their defenses than they were a year ago." He added that many countries have met or exceeded NATO's 2% defense spending target and are investing significantly in new weapons and capabilities.

McConnell also pointed out economic benefits for the U.S.: "A full two thirds of our allies’ spending on new defense procurement is going to buy American-made weapons and systems. Right now, U.S. industry is filling more than $140 billion dollars in contracts booked by European allies."

Discussing recent additions to NATO, he said: "One of the most encouraging developments since the last NATO summit has been the addition of two strong new allies with highly-capable militaries and cutting-edge industrial bases of their own." He expressed pride in working with Finland and Sweden during their accession process.

Highlighting ongoing threats from authoritarian regimes and rogue states, McConnell urged stronger alliances: "The authoritarians and rogue states seeking to undermine us are working together. We can’t afford not to do the same."

He concluded by stressing key points for future defense strategies: “That’s why all NATO allies need to take hard power more seriously… Why the 2% defense spending target is a floor, not a ceiling… Why these spending increases must be built into base budgets... And why contracting and procurement have to move at the speed of relevance.”

McConnell singled out Canada as needing improvement: “These lessons apply as much to America as they do to our European allies. And they apply even more so to our neighbor to the north – Canada is one of the only allies without a plan to reach the 2% spending target.”

In closing remarks about non-NATO partners joining discussions this week: “It’s encouraging that as NATO members address deficiencies... we’re joined by essential non-NATO partners who are taking increasingly clear-eyed approaches.”

Expressing gratitude for hosting international leaders during critical times: “I’m grateful for the opportunity... And I’m hopeful that together, the alliance will make headway on serious business before us.”