NATO chief downplays concerns over US strategy, affirms alliance commitment

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has moved to calm European anxieties over the United States' new national security strategy, asserting that the document ultimately reaffirms Washington's commitment to the transatlantic alliance. Speaking at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Thursday, Rutte emphasized that the strategy explicitly acknowledges the necessity of a strong NATO for collective security.

A focus on the positive language of commitment

Rutte stated his primary focus is alliance security and that, viewed through this lens, the US strategy "clearly states that the US is committed to Europe" and to NATO. He highlighted the document's recognition that "for the whole of the alliance to stay safe, you need a strong cooperation within NATO, between the European allies and Canada and the United States," framing this as a positive foundation.

Acknowledging Trump's expectations and European burden-sharing

The NATO chief also noted that allies are aware of US President Donald Trump's demands for increased European defense spending and greater responsibility. He pointed to steps already taken by European members to bolster their contributions, suggesting that meeting these expectations is part of maintaining a functional partnership with Washington under the current administration.

Context of a contentious US strategic shift

Rutte's conciliatory tone contrasts with the strategy's more contentious elements, which have caused unease in European capitals. The document pivots US focus to the Indo-Pacific, downplays the Russian threat as an "existential" one for Europe, and criticizes the vision of NATO as a "perpetually expanding alliance." Rutte's comments appear designed to focus on areas of continuity and avoid public discord, prioritizing alliance cohesion amid a clear shift in US strategic priorities.