Chicago – April 27, 2026
NATO is weighing whether to end its recent practice of holding annual leaders’ summits, a shift that could help the alliance avoid another tense encounter with U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Reuters. The move reflects both friction with Washington and a broader push by some members to slow the pace of high-level meetings.
According to Reuters, several NATO members are pushing for summits every two years instead of annually, and some have even floated skipping a summit in 2028. That year would coincide with the U.S. presidential election and Trump’s final full year in office.
The idea has not been decided. Reuters reported that NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte would have the final say, but allies remain divided on whether fewer summits would improve decision-making and reduce political drama.
Why it matters?
Trump has repeatedly criticized NATO allies over defense spending and burden-sharing, putting fresh pressure on the alliance’s cohesion. Reuters said the summit schedule debate is partly about avoiding a potentially difficult meeting with Trump, while still preserving regular consultation among allies.
NATO leaders are still expected to meet in 2027 in Albania, but the larger question is whether the alliance wants to keep the post-2021 rhythm of yearly summits or return to a slower cadence.
