11.12.2025 17:31
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Russia's next target is Europe, saying, "I'm afraid that too many people are quietly indifferent. Too many people do not feel a sense of urgency, and too many people believe that time is working in our favor. It is not. The time to act is now."
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte spoke at a panel organized by the Munich Security Conference in Berlin, moderated by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.
"RUSSIA'S NEXT TARGET IS US"
Rutte stated, "I am here to tell you where NATO stands today and what we need to do to stop it before a war starts. Russia's next target is us."
Emphasizing that defense production has increased in the past year but that it is still "not the time to congratulate," Rutte warned, "I fear that too many people are quietly indifferent. Too many people do not feel a sense of urgency, and too many people believe that time is working in our favor. It is not. The time to act is now."
"DEFENSE SPENDING AND PRODUCTION MUST INCREASE RAPIDLY"
The NATO Secretary General stated, "Defense spending and production must increase rapidly. Our armed forces must have what they need to keep us safe. Ukraine must have what it needs to defend itself now."
Pointing out that Russia has become "even more reckless, indifferent, and ruthless" towards NATO and Ukraine this year, Rutte mentioned that it is estimated that this country produces 2,900 armed drones per month.
PEACE AGREEMENT IN UKRAINE
In response to a question about the possibility of a peace agreement in Ukraine being reached before Christmas, Rutte replied, "It's hard to say." He noted that allies, led by the U.S., are working hard to achieve this, saying, "Do I believe that the U.S. and Europe will be on the same page when it comes to Ukraine? Yes, I am sure. I think we can do it. Am I sure the Russians will accept it? I don't know." Rutte also emphasized that this is a "big test" approaching for Russia.
U.S. NATIONAL STRATEGY
Rutte commented on the criticisms directed at Europe in the U.S. national strategy, which have resonated widely, stating, "(The strategy) actually envisions full commitment to European security, full commitment to NATO, and the reality that 'we can only defend the Euro-Atlantic area by acting together.' There are many things you can discuss, but this is the essence of it."