NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte underscored the need for increased European defense spending during an interview on "The Story." He highlighted the significant increase in European defense budgets since President Trump's call for members to reach 2% of GDP, but stressed that further investment is crucial. Rutte emphasized the importance of a balanced transatlantic defense partnership, recognizing the United States' leading role while advocating for Europe to shoulder a greater share of the responsibility. This, he argued, is not only vital for European security but also allows the U.S. to focus on other global challenges, including China and the Middle East.
Rutte's comments come as European leaders convened to address the upcoming U.S.-Russia negotiations in Saudi Arabia aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Concerns arose in Europe following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks about the unlikelihood of Ukraine joining NATO and the need for European and non-European troops to provide security guarantees, explicitly excluding U.S. deployment to Ukraine. These statements drew criticism for potentially undermining U.S. negotiating leverage.
Rutte expressed confidence in the U.S. negotiating team and affirmed Ukraine's involvement in the peace process. He dismissed criticisms of President Trump's approach as appeasement, framing it instead as a proactive effort to end the war. The NATO chief acknowledged initial European apprehension about the talks but noted their increasing engagement and desire to participate.
He also addressed the question of security guarantees for Ukraine, stating that European leaders are formulating plans to ensure Ukraine's safety if the U.S. does not maintain a military presence after the war. Rutte stressed the importance of "credible deterrence" to prevent further Russian aggression and emphasized the need for a lasting and durable peace agreement.
