Facing pressure from allies, Canada has outlined a timeline for reaching NATO’s defense spending target. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada will meet the two percent spending mark by 2032, describing the target as a “crass mathematical calculation.” However, he did not provide specifics on how Ottawa plans to achieve this benchmark.
At the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., Trudeau stated, “We can say with confidence and assurance that we will hit the two percent spending mark by 2032.” He emphasized that Canada often exceeds its weight in contributions, questioning the two percent target as the ultimate measure of commitment.
Throughout the summit, concerns about Canada not meeting its share were prominent. Roger Wicker, the highest-ranking Republican on the U.S. Senate’s armed services committee, mentioned he spoke with Trudeau, who assured him of an announcement regarding the two percent target. Wicker congratulated Trudeau’s effort, stressing that NATO allies should not rely on others for security.
Ahead of providing the timeline, Canada announced plans to purchase up to 12 new submarines to replace its aging fleet. Additionally, Canada signed a trilateral agreement with the U.S. and Finland, the “ICE Pact,” to boost icebreaker production to protect Arctic and Antarctic regions and deter Russia and China.
Trudeau highlighted Canada’s ongoing defense efforts, stating, “We are buying big things. We are building big things, and we are protecting the longest coastline in the world, including with increased responsibilities for the Arctic.” He also pointed out that the Liberal government has significantly increased defense spending since taking power, with a 57 percent growth since 2014, bringing the defense budget to $29.9 billion this year.
In dollar value, Canada ranks seventh among NATO allies, but in terms of GDP share spent on defense, it is fifth to last. Currently, 23 of the 32 NATO allies are expected to meet the two percent target this year, with Canada being the last to present a roadmap until now.
During the summit, Trudeau also faced questions about U.S. President Joe Biden’s leadership capabilities amid growing concerns about his fitness to run for president. Trudeau expressed confidence in Biden, stating, “We are lucky on the world stage to have Joe Biden leading here at NATO. His depth of experience, thoughtfulness, and steadfastness on the greatest issues and challenges of our time are a credit to the work that we’re all doing together.”
Canada may face increased pressure to boost spending if Donald Trump wins the next U.S. election, as Trump has previously stated he would “encourage” Russia to act against NATO allies that do not pay their share on defense.
