Nato’s outgoing Secretary General Mark Rutte has credited former US President Donald Trump with a significant foreign policy success, stating that Trump’s pressure on allies to increase defence spending has made the alliance “stronger than it ever was.” Rutte highlighted the commitment from Nato members to spend 5% of their economic output on defence as a direct result of Trump’s influence, a move he believes is crucial for collective security and support for Ukraine.

Trump consistently criticised European allies for their perceived underinvestment in defence, even suggesting that the United States might not defend them if they failed to meet spending targets. This has been a recurring theme in his political rhetoric, drawing both praise and criticism from international observers and leaders alike.

Rutte’s remarks come amid heightened concerns about Russia’s intentions. The Nato chief has warned that Russia could potentially attack allied nations within the next five years, a claim dismissed by Russian President Vladimir Putin as “hysteria” and “pure nonsense.” Putin maintains there is no imaginary Russian threat to European countries, despite ongoing military actions.

Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which led to the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, Putin has reiterated his commitment to achieving his objectives in Ukraine. He has suggested a preference for diplomatic solutions but has also stated that Russia will reclaim its “historical lands” through military means if substantive discussions are refused by Ukraine and its international patrons.

The Nato Secretary General described Putin’s ambition to regain access to Ukraine, or even the former Soviet Union’s territory, as “insane,” noting the immense human cost with an estimated 1.1 million casualties. Rutte also touched upon ongoing diplomatic efforts for a potential peace plan for Ukraine, which reportedly involves territorial concessions and security guarantees for Kyiv.

European allies are exploring various avenues to support Ukraine, including the establishment of a “multinational force Ukraine” to aid in regeneration, air defence, and maritime security. Rutte emphasized that with robust security guarantees in place, Russia should be deterred from future aggression, warning of a “devastating” response should such an attack occur.

Despite reassurances from Moscow that it does not seek conflict with Europe, Russia’s economy has been operating on a war footing for years. Reports indicate a significant increase in the production of military hardware, including tanks, drones, and artillery shells, far exceeding the current output of most Western European nations.

Analysts suggest it would take years for Western European factories to match Russia’s mass production capabilities. In response, countries like France and Germany are considering reviving systems of voluntary military service for young adults. Nato, comprising 30 European nations plus Canada and the US, is at a critical juncture, with its members having pledged to reach 5% defence spending by 2035.

Rutte stressed the urgency of implementing these defence spending decisions, warning that failing to do so would leave the alliance weaker and more vulnerable to Russian threats. The collective defence commitment is seen as a vital bulwark against long-term threats, including those posed by Russia and terrorism.

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Keywords: Nato, Donald Trump, Mark Rutte, defence spending, Russia, Ukraine, Vladimir Putin, collective security