Nato allies are bracing themselves for tough American demands to intensify military spending, as they seek clarity from James Mattis, the new US defence secretary, on Donald Trump’s policy towards the alliance.
General Mattis will meet his Nato counterparts this week in Brussels, their first meeting since Mr Trump took office after a campaign in which he repeatedly questioned the organisation and its reliance on Washington. The president has also questioned US support for European integration.
Nato allies want Gen Mattis to flesh out Mr Trump’s demands for a steep rise in defence spending and a bigger role for the organisation in counter-terrorism operations. “We are lacking clarity regarding immediate issues which are on the table,” said a senior Nato diplomat.