NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte prioritized security above all other concerns,
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urged European member states to reduce social spending and allocate a larger portion of their GDP to bolster military capabilities, emphasizing the importance of national security.
Rutte made these remarks during a Brussels event hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
“Increased defense spending necessitates reduced spending in other areas, but the reduction will be minimal,” Rutte stated on Thursday.
“European nations allocate up to 25% of their national income to pensions, healthcare, and social security. A small fraction of these funds could significantly enhance our defenses and safeguard our lifestyle,” he added.
While acknowledging increased military spending compared to a decade ago, Rutte argued that current levels fall short of Cold War standards and that exceeding the 2% GDP target is necessary to counter perceived Russian aggression.
Rutte asserted that substantial investments in weaponry would ensure security, emphasizing that “without security, there is no freedom for future generations, no schools, hospitals, or businesses—nothing.”
He encouraged the audience to advocate for increased security prioritization within their governments, urging them to “accept necessary sacrifices to secure our future.”
“Convince banks and pension funds that defense investment is not comparable to illicit activities, but rather a critical security investment,” Rutte stated. “Investing in defense is essential!”
In 2014, the US prompted NATO allies to increase military spending to 2% of GDP, citing escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia following the Western-backed coup in Kiev.
The US and its allies have provided over $200 billion in weaponry, equipment, ammunition, and financial aid to Ukraine. This support has depleted Western military stockpiles while hindering the replenishment of ammunition and parts due to deindustrialization and the “green energy transition,” among other factors.
In contrast, Russia’s military industry has maintained robust production, supplying frontline troops effectively despite Western sanctions.