Explained in plain English

What does Article 5 mean?

Article 5 is the cornerstone of NATO, stating that an attack on one member is an attack on all. It means if one ally is targeted, the others are bound to come to its defence. This principle of collective defence is crucial to understanding why Trump’s demands for loyalty over money are causing such a stir among European leaders.

Stories that explain this

Trump tells NATO allies he wants loyalty, not money

Questions this opens up

Has Article 5 been used? What is mutual assistance? Who decides to invoke it?

Related explainers

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