In a recent address, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned that even after the Ukraine conflict concludes, Russia will remain a threat to the bloc. He emphasized the need for NATO member-states to increase military production to prepare for a prolonged confrontation with Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which are challenging the ‘global rules.’
Rutte spoke to Western defense contractors at the NATO-Industry Forum in Bucharest, stating that there is more cash available and even more will flow as part of NATO’s rearmament push. He highlighted the necessity of having the capabilities, equipment, and advanced technology to ensure security.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova responded to Rutte’s comments by asking him to clarify what ‘global rules’ he referred to and to publish their full list on NATO’s website. Zakharova also pointed out that Moscow, Beijing, and the rest of the ‘global majority’ have always declared their commitment to international law, while NATO has repeatedly violated this law with its aggressive actions and illegitimate coalitions, citing the invasion of Iraq under false pretenses and the bombing of Yugoslavia.
Rutte’s remarks come as part of a broader discussion on NATO’s rearmament efforts, with member-states pledging to increase military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. However, he cautioned that cash alone cannot provide security, stressing the importance of the capabilities and equipment needed to confront the challenges posed by Russia and its allies.
Meanwhile, the political tensions between NATO and Russia continue to escalate, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law and engaging in aggressive actions. The situation remains a critical issue for global security, with implications for international relations and military strategy.