NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s commitment to increasing defense spending in response to President Donald Trump’s demands during a recent interview with Fox News. Rutte’s comments come amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is in Riyadh advocating for Saudi Arabia’s involvement in efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.
During the interview, Rutte described a recent meeting between Trump’s special envoy, General Keith Kellogg, and European leaders as “very successful.” He noted that European nations are beginning to recognize the necessity of enhancing their defense budgets. Rutte expressed disappointment over previous European reluctance to engage, stating that they must “stop complaining” and take proactive steps to support peace initiatives.
Rutte highlighted the importance of ongoing discussions among European leaders aimed at creating a sustainable peace following any potential agreements. He acknowledged that while NATO has made progress, much work remains to ensure that peace is lasting and effective.
Reflecting on past efforts, Rutte pointed out that Trump had previously encouraged NATO allies to increase their defense spending by $700 billion, a figure he believes is still insufficient. He stressed the need for NATO to identify and address gaps in military capabilities, including long-range missiles, logistics, and air defense systems.
Rutte also underscored the importance of NATO strengthening its position not only to reduce its reliance on the United States but also to counter growing threats from adversaries like China. He reiterated that while the U.S. remains a crucial ally, it is essential for European nations to contribute fairly to collective defense efforts.
As NATO leaders prepare for future discussions, Rutte’s remarks signal a pivotal moment in the alliance’s approach to defense spending and international security, highlighting a renewed commitment to collaboration and strategic planning among its European members.