NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that some NATO countries should increase their defense spending and stressed that US President-elect Donald Trump could put more pressure on this issue. Rutte said, “Trump will demand more from us and he is right in this demand. As NATO, we must increase our defense capacity.”
Draws Attention to Defense Spending
Speaking to the German News Agency (DPA), NATO Secretary General Rutte stated that the defense budgets of some NATO members, especially Germany, are not sufficient. Stating that the current budgets should be reviewed, Rutte emphasized the importance of planning long-term security strategies.
“We are not under a direct threat right now, but we may face serious risks in 4-5 years. That is why we have to increase defense spending.” Rutte stated that steps should be taken quickly to strengthen the deterrence of the alliance.
Deterrence and Preparedness
Rutte stated that there is still time to increase NATO’s deterrence power, but action must be taken. Underlining the need to increase the production of military equipment in particular, Rutte said, “We have to strengthen our defense industry and increase our production capacity. We need to set up additional production lines and shifts to protect ourselves in the long term.”
Rutte stated that NATO must be prepared and that deterrence policies are the most effective defense method against possible threats. Increasing investments in the defense industry will protect against possible risks, he said.
Germany’s Contribution to Ukraine Praised
Mark Rutte also touched upon Germany’s military aid to Ukraine. Stating that Germany has provided approximately 28 billion euros, according to some calculations 34 billion euros, Rutte stated that this support is one of the biggest contributions of Europe.
Rutte praised Germany for providing the largest aid after the US and said, “This is a very large amount and they contribute much more than other major economies in Europe.”
Rutte also said that Germany’s policy towards Ukraine is based on its own security threats. “Ukraine’s defeat would lead to a further increase in Europe’s defense spending. That is why it is strategically important to support Ukraine’s resistance,” he added.
Trump’s Pressures and Future Prospects
With the re-election of Donald Trump as president, the pressure on NATO members to increase their defense spending is expected to increase. Stating that Trump is right on this issue, Rutte said, “If we do not increase our defense spending, we may be caught unprepared for future threats. Therefore, we must take the necessary steps now.”
Rutte emphasized that it is inevitable to increase economic and military investments in order for NATO to maintain its deterrent power. Member states must be prepared not only for current threats but also for future risks, he said.
Conclusion: The Imperative for Strong Defense and Solidarity in NATO
Mark Rutte’s statements highlight the need for significant changes in NATO’s defense policies. Increasing defense spending, expanding military production capacity and implementing common deterrence policies will ensure that the alliance is strongly protected against future threats.
