NATO, Rutte: 'Defence spending in Europe increased by 20 per cent'

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte pointed out that the European allies of the United States, along with Canada, have kept their commitment to an increased defence budget. "We have seen a 20 per cent increase in defence spending by Europe and Canada in 2025 compared to 2024," Rutte said, presenting the Alliance's annual report in The Hague. "Continuing this trend will be a priority in the coming years," he added, specifying that "for the first time, all allies have reached the target of 2% of GDP. Overall, the increase equates to about $574 billion additional, according to estimates in the annual report, which marks the second consecutive year of military investment growth.

According to Rutte, since the US was unable to inform its allies about the attack on Iran, "Europe needs time to get organised" and ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz. The secretary general stated that more than 30 countries, mostly NATO members, are working on a plan to ensure that the Strait of Hormuz and maritime routes remain open, although the timing remains uncertain. Rutte also reiterated support for US action against Tehran's potential missile and nuclear capabilities: 'The US is weakening this capability, and yes, I applaud that.

The Secretary General also recalled the 'historic' decision of the 2025 Hague Summit to aim for a spending level up to 5% of GDP in the long term. "I expect the Allies, at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, to show that they are on a clear and credible path towards the 5% target," Rutte added. The 5% target includes 3.5% to finance basic defence and an additional 1.5% for defence-related investments and security, such as civil preparedness and resilience, promotion of innovation, protection of critical infrastructure and strengthening defence industries.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump returned to attack NATO. The White House leader entrusted his disappointment with the Atlantic alliance, which he deemed useless, to his social network Truth. "Nato has done absolutely nothing to help with the insane, now militarily decimated nation of Iran. The United States needs nothing from NATO, but "we will never forget" this very important moment." These were the words written by Trump in a post, with a harsh outburst against Nato partners who have not agreed to participate in an action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.