NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned that Europe must significantly increase its military capabilities to confront a resurgent Russia, highlighting Moscow’s unprecedented pace in ammunition production, RKS News reports.
In an interview with the New York Times, Rutte praised former U.S. President Donald Trump for initiating dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling it “a necessary step toward peace.”
Despite growing financial commitments from European allies—especially in support of Ukraine—Rutte stressed that challenges remain, particularly the lack of industrial capacity for weapons manufacturing and insufficient military personnel.
He warned that security in the Arctic, Atlantic, and across Europe has a direct impact on global stability and the strategic interests of the United States.
Although diplomatic efforts have been made, Rutte pointed to the failure of peace talks in Istanbul, attributing it to Russia’s lack of genuine engagement. He emphasized that Ukraine must remain militarily strong to deter further aggression.
Rutte dismissed Russian criticism of NATO’s increased defense spending, calling it “propaganda” and a sign that the alliance’s deterrence strategy is working.
He also underscored the importance of monitoring cooperation between Russia and nations like North Korea, China, and Iran, which he said are helping to bolster Moscow’s standing on the international stage.
