Key facts
- NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated Donald Trump was right to push allies to increase defense spending.
- Rutte credited Trump with achieving greater defense spending and military modernization from European allies.
- The NATO summit secured billions in defense deals and emphasized increased European defense spending.
- Rutte noted European countries are stepping up to shoulder a fairer share of defending the continent.
- Rutte highlighted the importance of European support for U.S. military operations, such as the bombing campaign against Iran.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has lauded U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that Trump was correct in his persistent calls for NATO allies to increase defense spending and modernize their militaries. In an interview with POLITICO, Rutte credited Trump with achieving significant progress in getting European nations to contribute more to collective defense, a goal that has eluded American presidents since Eisenhower. Rutte described Trump's approach as beneficial for NATO, noting that European countries have pledged substantial new investments and programs. The NATO chief also emphasized that the alliance is strengthening its defenses not only due to pressure from Trump but also in response to the threat posed by Russia, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Rutte highlighted the crucial role European bases played in U.S. military operations, such as the bombing campaign against Iran, despite Trump's criticisms of allied support. He asserted that the alliance remains united with the U.S. as a partner, with Europeans stepping up to shoulder a fairer share of defense responsibilities.