Bucharest Nine and Nordic Allies Endorse 'NATO 3.0' Strategy, Label Russia Primary Threat

Leaders from the Bucharest Nine (B9) and Nordic NATO allies convened in Bucharest on May 13, 2026, to endorse a new strategic framework termed 'NATO 3.0.' The joint statement explicitly identifies Russia as the alliance's most significant, long-term, and direct security threat. The strategy emphasizes increased defense spending, with allies working towards a 5% of GDP commitment, and aims to strengthen European military capabilities while reinforcing the transatlantic bond. Romanian President Nicușor Dan and Polish Leader Karol Nawrocki co-hosted the summit, which included NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The declaration condemns Russian hybrid attacks and airspace violations, calling for enhanced missile and drone defenses. It reaffirms unwavering support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations and military needs. The leaders highlighted the strategic continuity from the Black Sea to the Arctic, stressing the need for improved military mobility and NATO-EU cooperation. This summit serves as a preparatory step for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, focusing on a balanced distribution of defense responsibilities between Europe and the United States.