NATO Secretary General Rutte: We Must Be Alert Against Russia's Hostile Activities

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made a joint press statement with German Prime Minister Friedrich Merz and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten.

Emphasizing that allies should be careful about Russia's activities in Europe, Rutte stated that they do not see an imminent threat of military attack against NATO, but that Moscow's hostile activities may continue.

"We see Russia testing us across Europe. Airspace violations, arson, sabotage and, of course, the Russian hybrid attack on Leipzig-Halle Airport in August." Rutte said that allies should be prepared for developments.

"We do not see an imminent threat of military aggression against NATO, but we must be prepared for Russia's campaign of hostile activity against allies to continue," Rutte said. he said.

Calling on governments, societies and industrial organizations to be careful, Rutte said, "We must all be vigilant. We must all be careful. This includes governments, our societies and industry." he said.

Rutte pointed out the importance of allied governments and defense companies working in close cooperation and said that the defense industry should be made resistant to possible threats.

Emphasizing that the Kremlin is trying to divide NATO countries and reduce the support given to Ukraine, Rutte called on the allies to continue their support to Ukraine.

Rutte pointed out that Germany and the Netherlands increased their defense expenditures and contributed to the activities on the eastern flank of NATO, and stated that the air and naval elements of the two countries also played a role in the security of the Alliance.

Regarding the duty of the 1st German-Dutch Corps, which he visited, on NATO's eastern flank, Rutte said, "The 1st German-Dutch Corps bears the responsibility of commanding NATO forces in the defense of Estonia and Latvia." he said.

Stating that the Corps has the capacity to command an international force of approximately 50 thousand soldiers, Rutte noted that this is an example of European allies assuming more responsibility in the defense of NATO territory.