LONDON
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s vital role in addressing global threats, highlighting its significance in protecting both the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.
Speaking in Latvia, Rutte reiterated NATO’s commitment to boosting defense spending amid rising security challenges. His remarks come as defense budgets are under renewed scrutiny with former US President Donald Trump’s return to prominence. Trump, during his first term, criticized European nations for insufficient defense contributions.
NATO members have pledged to allocate at least 2% of GDP to defense, a benchmark Rutte emphasized during discussions with Latvian leaders, including President Edgars Rinkevics and Prime Minister Evika Silina.
Rutte stressed the importance of a united defense strategy to tackle an increasingly interconnected threat landscape. He noted NATO’s role in safeguarding not only Europe and the US but also ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific, citing the need for a collaborative approach to counter threats from Russia and its allies.
Addressing NATO forces during the Resolute Warrior exercise at Latvia’s Adazi military base, Rutte highlighted the risks posed by Russian “aggression” in Ukraine and its partnerships with countries like North Korea, China, and Iran. He alleged North Korean soldiers are aiding Russia in its war efforts.
Rutte also acknowledged Trump’s influence in urging NATO members to increase defense spending, commending his push for financial commitments since 2016.
“Latvia is setting an example with 3.5% of GDP for defense, and NATO members reaching the 2% goal is a positive step, but more is required,” Rutte said, calling for increased industrial production to meet the alliance’s growing security demands.
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