Brussels: The US defense secretary Thursday reiterated the call for an increase of up to 5% in NATO spending. In a joint news conference with NATO chief Mark Rutte, Pete Hegseth recalled US President Donald Trump's call, stating, "The president has said 2% is not enough, and we are going to argue that up to 5% is the necessary investment from NATO countries to ensure we are able to meet the threats of the future."

According to Anadolu Agency, in a previous statement on Wednesday, Hegseth called for increased defense spending and emphasized that the earlier target of 2% of the annual GDP is insufficient, with Trump advocating for a 5% target. Hegseth also highlighted the necessity of strengthening the defense industrial base for both Europe and the US, stressing the importance of having the capability to produce the necessary systems and ammunition to sustain a fight.

Hegseth praised Trump's conversations late Wednesday with Ukrainian and Russian presidents, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin, regarding efforts to end the war in Ukraine. He remarked, "There is one man in the world capable of convening the parties together to bring peace, and that is President Donald Trump."

Rutte supported Hegseth's remarks, stating that increased defense spending is essential, as allies need to ensure their protection in the coming years. He emphasized the consensus among allies for a lasting peace in Ukraine, positioning Ukraine from a standpoint of strength.

Zelenskyy also acknowledged his conversation with Trump on Wednesday, describing it as "meaningful" and noting discussions about opportunities to achieve peace.