EU Seeks to Revive Iran Diplomacy

Defense Spending & NATO - NATO aims to reach 5% defense spending target, requiring difficult decisions from member states [5] - The challenge lies in justifying defense spending during peacetime [5] - NATO Secretary General is working to keep European countries united on defense spending [6] - Discussions include opening financial possibilities for member states to spend more and promoting joint procurement [7] - The 2% of GDP spending pledge by 2024 was not met by all countries [9] - The summit's primary goal is to secure agreement on moving to 5% of defense spending [10] - Article 5 of NATO is clear: an attack on one is an attack on all [13] Geopolitical Issues & Ukraine - Every new war diverts attention from ongoing conflicts, such as the one in Ukraine [17] - The EU has supported Ukraine's military with €24 billion in 2024, exceeding last year's support [18] - The EU is pursuing an 18th package of sanctions against Russia [18] - Discussions are planned regarding the use of Russian frozen assets to aid Ukraine [19][20] International Relations & Trade - The EU is working towards a trade deal with the United States by July 9th [20] - Canada's potential relationship with the EU is being considered, despite geographical challenges [21][22]