NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte spoke harshly against arguments that Europe could ensure its own security without the United States. Speaking in the European Parliament, Rutte emphasized that the transatlantic alliance is indispensable and said that a defense scenario without the USA is unrealistic.
“THEY CAN CONTINUE DREAMING”
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Making evaluations at the joint meeting of the European Parliament Security and Defense Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee, Rutte made the following statements:
“If anyone here again thinks that the EU or Europe as a whole can defend itself without the United States, they can continue to dream. We can’t do that. We need each other.”
Rutte’s words attracted attention at a time when US President Donald Trump’s criticism of NATO was on the agenda again.
“YOU WILL LOSE THIS RACE”
Emphasizing that Europe acting alone would result in serious costs, Rutte also drew attention to defense expenditures. NATO Secretary General stated that it would not be enough for European countries to even increase their defense expenditures to 5 percent of the gross domestic product, and this rate should reach 10 percent.
Rutte stated that Europe’s efforts to establish an independent defense structure poses serious risks and warned, “You will lose this race.”
NUCLEAR WARNING: “YOU WILL LOSE THE USA’S UMBRELLA”
Touching on the issue of nuclear deterrence in his speech, Rutte said that Europe may have to build its own nuclear capacity, and this will cost billions of euros.
Rutte said, “In such a scenario, you would also lose the nuclear umbrella of the USA, which is the ultimate guarantee of our freedom. So, here you go, good luck.” he said.
“USA ALSO NEEDS NATO”
In his statements, Rutte emphasized that not only Europe but also the USA needs NATO. Stating that the weakening of the transatlantic bond will increase security risks for both sides, NATO Secretary General called for the strengthening of the alliance.
