NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned European lawmakers that the EU and Europe as a whole cannot defend themselves without the United States. His remarks came amid tensions sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier threats toward Greenland, which were resolved after discussions with Rutte.
Rutte emphasized that EU countries must increase defense spending, suggesting a rise from the current NATO target of 5% to 10% of GDP, including investment in nuclear capabilities, to maintain security. He stressed that the U.S. nuclear umbrella remains the ultimate guarantor of European freedom.
While praising Trump’s pressure on reluctant European allies to increase defense budgets, Rutte rejected proposals for an independent European defense force that could replace U.S. troops, warning that such a move could benefit Russian President Vladimir Putin.
On Greenland, Rutte stated that NATO would assume greater responsibility for Arctic defense, but negotiations regarding U.S. presence are the prerogative of Greenland and Denmark, not NATO.
He also reminded Trump of the high costs borne by NATO allies in Afghanistan, underlining the shared sacrifices of both American and allied soldiers.
