In a move that aligns with the desires of former President Donald Trump, European allies within NATO have been increasing their military spending and highlighting common interests, including concerns over China. This expansion of defense capabilities not only serves their own security needs but also bolsters the American economy by purchasing U.S. weapons.

Although it remains uncertain how Trump would have handled U.S. participation in NATO if he had been reelected, European leaders are expressing apprehension. With Russia's intensified missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, the urgency to maintain U.S. involvement in NATO has become a matter of existential importance for European partners. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis stated, "If Ukraine loses, my country's next. That's clear." Consequently, many European NATO members, including Lithuania, are increasing taxes to support a significant military push against Russia's actions in Ukraine.

During the recent NATO summit in Washington, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg underscored that allies had understood and acted upon Trump's message, with a record 23 out of 32 NATO members now spending at least 2% of their gross domestic product on their defense budgets. Stoltenberg noted that the 2022 invasion of Ukraine by Russia fueled NATO members' commitment to increase security spending. Until then, only six allies had met the spending target.

European leaders are strategically emphasizing the benefits of U.S. engagement with NATO. They argue that the U.S. is vital for European allies and NATO while underscoring the advantages of a secure and stable Europe as a lucrative market for American businesses. Jacek Siewiera, the head of Poland's national security bureau, highlighted the importance of the alliance for European defense, democracy, and shared values, but also emphasized the significance of its economic impact, stating, "It's business."

Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasinas outlined his country's shared priorities with Trump, including bolstering European defense self-reliance, increasing procurement of U.S. weapons, addressing security threats from China, and imposing sanctions on Iran. Kasinas characterized Trump as a "deal-maker" and expressed willingness to negotiate and find agreements if Trump were to win a second term.

The upcoming U.S. election has added complexity to European officials' tasks, as they seek to maintain a delicate balance by publicly expressing willingness to work with whoever wins in November. Not wanting to appear partisan, they refrain from overtly preparing for another Trump presidency or openly expressing concerns about his policies.

Trump's previous remarks expressing admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his criticism of NATO have caused alarm among U.S. presidents and lawmakers, including President Joe Biden. Trump's warnings about inviting Russian attacks on NATO allies have been particularly concerning. Nonetheless, European officials have been working to build relationships with the Trump camp, emphasizing visits to U.S. factories that produce the weapons their countries are purchasing and highlighting the positive contribution to the American economy.

As European allies step up their military spending and emphasize the benefits of NATO and the transatlantic alliance, they potentially align themselves with the priorities Trump had expressed during his presidency. The desire to maintain a cooperative relationship with the U.S. in the field of defense and security is driven by both mutual interests and the need to confront emerging global challenges, such as an assertive China. Ultimately, if Trump claims credit for strengthening NATO and continues to support the alliance, it may be a narrative that European leaders are willing to accept.