Statements from NATO Secretary General Rutte on Russia, Iran and European Defense

In his speech at the Defense and Space Summit organized by Euronews in Brussels, Rutte made evaluations about the Russia-Ukraine War, attacks on Iran and European defense.

Stating that he could not share the content of the letter Russia sent to NATO, but the letter was reflected in the press, Rutte said, "We basically said this: Look, we are a defense alliance. End the nuclear threat. This is absolutely unnecessary and not useful. Especially end the war in Ukraine." he said.

"There is no near-term threat"

Pointing out that there is no data indicating that Russia is currently making a buildup against NATO territory, Rutte said, "There is no near-term threat to NATO territory." gave the information.

Rutte underlined that the alliance is capable of dealing with this threat even if it occurs, saying, "(Russian President Vladimir) Putin knows that he can never defeat NATO. Therefore, I do not take it that seriously." he said.

Stating that there is no risk of using nuclear weapons against the Baltic countries, Rutte said, "NATO is much stronger than Russia. There is no way they can defeat us. We are in an excellent situation in terms of both hybrid threats and any other situation that may arise." he said.

Mark Rutte, on the other hand, underlined the importance of continuing support for Ukraine and said, "Remain calm, we are stronger. Let's continue on our way, continue investing and, above all, let's make sure Ukraine has what it needs to continue the struggle." gave his message.

Pointing out that only US President Donald Trump can end the Russia-Ukraine War, Rutte argued that only Trump has been able to break the deadlock with Putin so far.

Rutte, on the other hand, stated that Putin is not willing for peace.

"The entire alliance may not agree on Iran"

Speaking about the US attacks on Iran, Rutte said, "It is critical for the American President to eliminate this threat and weaken this capacity. Of course, there are some negative sides to this. This is obvious. However, I am looking at the positive sides here." made his assessment.

Rutte essentially stated that Europe should do this and be able to protect itself against Russia and said, "I believe that it is absolutely necessary for Americans to take action against Iran." he said.

Stating that the entire alliance may not have the same opinion on this issue, Rutte stated that this does not pose a problem.

"The atmosphere across the alliance is great"

Describing the atmosphere across NATO as "great" and "better than ever", Rutte said, "Because now there is a Europe that takes responsibility for its own defense. President Trump loves NATO. He only hated one element, and that was that we were not spending enough." he said.

Rutte pointed out that the defense industry infrastructure in Europe is not developed enough and said that there is not enough production and many factories are still not working at full capacity.

Pointing out that the USA should also increase production, Rutte stated that discussions about whether purchasing should be made from the USA or Europe are unnecessary.

Mark Rutte noted that the important thing is to "buy" and that open and independent free markets are the best option for this.