Rutte names countries preparing for ‘long confrontation’ with NATO
Photo: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (Getty Images)
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warns that Russia, China, and Iran are increasing cooperation in the military sphere and preparing for a prolonged confrontation, which requires the Alliance to be ready, The Guardian reports.
“Some may worry about a new arms race, but our own aim, I can tell you, is not to provoke. Our aim is to protect and to ensure that we can continue to enjoy the freedom and security that we all hold so dear, the freedom and security that NATO was founded to preserve,” Rutte noted.
Global threats
The NATO Secretary General called Russia’s war against Ukraine the most obvious example of a threat, but emphasized that the challenges will not end with the conclusion of the conflict. He stressed that China, Iran, and North Korea each pose separate threats, and their joint cooperation adds further risks.
Rutte drew attention to recent developments in Beijing and the active military cooperation among these countries.
“They are increasing their defence industrial collaboration to unprecedented levels. They are preparing for a long-term confrontation. And as I said earlier, the challenges we face are lasting. So we must be prepared,” the NATO Secretary General added.
As previously reported, NATO members plan to spend over $1.5 trillion on defense in 2025. Poland is spending the highest share of its economy on defense - 4.48%. It is followed by Lithuania with 4%, and Latvia with 3.73%.
Earlier, Rutte stated that Europe must ramp up military production faster to catch up with Russia.
The Alliance approved more ambitious spending targets this year, but that still isn't enough.
NATO Secretary General also appealed to defense companies to increase production of various types of weapons - in particular missiles, tanks, and air defense systems.
