Mark Rutte, speaking at the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, outlined a vision for a more Europe-led NATO while maintaining strong transatlantic ties with the United States.
“Russia is advancing in Ukraine at the pace of a snail and suffering staggering losses as it does so,” Rutte said.
He emphasized that over the coming years, NATO will increasingly be led by Europe, while remaining fully anchored with the U.S. in the alliance. “We will do this step by step, in close cooperation with the United States, based on the defense planning process we have,” Rutte added.
Meanwhile, Ursula von der Leyen confirmed Europe’s plans to increase defense spending, highlighting that this would also strengthen NATO’s European pillar.
“Europe must become more independent, it must do more for its defense. A strong Europe also means a strong NATO,” von der Leyen stated during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Johann Wadephul in Munich.
