NATO leaders are descending on Washington. Here’s what to know

AP Diplomatic Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) — NATO leaders meet this week for a summit commemorating the 75th anniversary of the military alliance, which has never been larger and more focused. But NATO also is facing potentially existential threats from outside and within. Besides Russia’s war in Ukraine, challenges posed by an increasingly aggressive China and the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, some key members’ commitment to defend their allies is coming under question. There’s deep uncertainty over President Joe Biden’s ability to beat his predecessor, NATO skeptic Donald Trump, in November to lead the most powerful member of the alliance. While Biden’s political troubles are stirring concerns at home and abroad, countries in Europe are facing their own issues with a rise of far-right populism.