08.07.2026 17:21
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte brushed off persistent questions about US President Donald Trump, who has harshly criticized European countries and NATO for allocating insufficient resources. Stating that the relationship among NATO allies is strong, Rutte said, "I have always known that Trump and the US are committed to NATO. We may have differences of opinion, but we are in a strong alliance."
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who held a press conference after the 36th NATO Summit hosted by Ankara, made striking statements. While detailing the declaration issued by NATO after the summit, Rutte said, 'NATO is stronger than ever. The relationship among allies is very strong.'
'I ALWAYS KNEW TRUMP IS COMMITTED TO NATO'
Rutte, who said he always knew that US President Trump, who has been highly critical of NATO and European countries, is fully committed to NATO, stated, 'NATO is more united than ever. I always knew Trump and the US are committed to NATO. We may have differences of opinion, but we are in a strong alliance.'
Rutte noted that leaders also reached an agreement on modernizing the Alliance and preparing it for the future, adding that European allies and Canada, together with the US, will take on more responsibility in the Alliance's defense.
Secretary General Rutte assessed, 'This is the essence of NATO 3.0, an Alliance that continues to adapt and ensure the security of 1 billion people.'