Fact-check · Nov 10, 2026 · Pete Hegseth
“Our NATO allies, after decades of riding on the American taxpayer in Europe, committed to 5% of GDP for their own defense.”
MISLEADING
What the record shows
NATO members committed to a 2% GDP defense spending target (established 2006, reaffirmed 2014). As of 2024, only ~23 of 32 members meet or exceed 2%; no NATO-wide commitment to 5% exists. The U.S. spends ~3.4% of GDP on defense (2024).
NATO's binding commitment is 2% GDP, not 5%. While some members now spend 5%+, this is not a collective NATO commitment.
From: LIVE: Pete Hegseth Holds Pentagon Press Briefing As Impeachment Effort Against Him Intensifies
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