NATO countries moving away from unhealthy reliance on US, Rutte says

Speech in Washington

Rutte made the remarks on Thursday in the United States during a speech at the Ronald Reagan Institute, seeking to ease tensions with President Donald Trump’s administration.

This came after some NATO allies initially refused to support Washington’s request to take part in the war against Iran and to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

"I have developed an unflinching appreciation for the value of American leadership. But I have also had the opportunity to reflect on what happens when America’s allies take that leadership — US leadership — for granted," Rutte said.

European dependence and new investments

The NATO chief acknowledged that Europe had previously relied excessively on the US military, while defense budgets became outdated.

Some European countries, he noted, believe "hard power" is something to be ashamed of, amid reductions in military capabilities.

According to Rutte, Trump pushed allies to increase defense spending, and new investments have laid "the foundation" for a true partnership — shifting from "unhealthy co-dependence" to more equal cooperation.

Security of the Strait of Hormuz and ceasefire

Rutte stressed the importance of concrete commitments from European governments to support security in the Strait of Hormuz after the war in Iran ends.

Even after the announced 14-day ceasefire, the key maritime route remains effectively closed, and allies must ensure its security.

This transatlantic alliance, at least for now, is indispensable, Rutte added, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility for maintaining global stability.

Iran, through Pakistan acting as a mediator, sent a 10-point proposal aimed at ending the war with the United States and Israel.

Rutte also noted that US President Donald Trump is clearly frustrated by allies’ reluctance to support military action against Iran.