NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has said Germany is leading what he described as the Alliance’s biggest transformation since the Cold War, as NATO enters what he called a new phase of collective defense known as “NATO 3.0.”
Speaking at the annual Conference of Heads of Mission in Berlin, Rutte said European allies and Canada are taking greater responsibility for their own security as NATO adapts to a changing strategic environment.
“Security is not something the United States should do for us, but with us,” Rutte said, according to NATO.
Rutte praised Germany’s growing contribution to NATO’s defense posture, highlighting the country’s new armored brigade in Lithuania and its expanded command role on NATO’s eastern flank.
He also pointed to the deployment of German aircraft and naval assets to strengthen the Alliance’s deterrence and defense capabilities.
Rutte praised Germany’s defense industry as well, including both major companies and innovative smaller firms, saying the country was increasing production and contributing more to NATO’s overall military capabilities.
“You are producing more and doing more for our Alliance,” Rutte said.
Speaking alongside German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Rutte also expressed NATO’s solidarity with Germany following what he described as a Russian hybrid attack at Leipzig Airport.
“NATO stands in full solidarity with Germany. You have thirty-one friends and allies at your side,” Rutte said.
He said the Alliance’s response would include strengthening support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression.
Rutte’s remarks underscore Germany’s increasingly central role in NATO’s effort to reinforce its eastern flank, expand defense production and strengthen European contributions to collective security as the Alliance adapts to a more challenging security environment.
