European nations should embrace U.S. President Donald Trump‘s appeal for increased military spending among NATO allies rather than dismiss it, according to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He emphasized the critical nature of security for the continent during a statement on Wednesday.

Trump has proposed that NATO members allocate 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP) to defense, a significant rise from the current 2% target, which no NATO member, including the U.S., currently meets.

This request, reiterated on Monday during his inauguration, highlights Trump’s ongoing emphasis on NATO funding from his first term, coupled with his warnings to allies who do not meet spending expectations. NATO officials have not formally accepted the 5% benchmark.

“We should not react with irritation or dismay,” Tusk remarked to members of the European Parliament. “Some perceive it as excessive or as a harsh warning.”

Tusk, who is currently leading the EU presidency for six months, noted that the era of complacency has ended, as the new U.S. president insists that Europe must take on a larger role in ensuring its own security. “Only a true ally would encourage another ally to strengthen itself. This is not the stance of an adversary towards Europe,” Tusk stated.

Poland is projected to have the highest defense spending among NATO members, estimated at 4.1% of its GDP in 2024, while eight of the alliance’s 32 members are expected to spend less than 2%.