Rutte says ‘NATO 3.0’ aims for stronger Europe in stronger alliance

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday described “NATO 3.0” as a strategic vision for “a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO,” emphasizing that the transatlantic alliance remains anchored in cooperation with the United States while pushing European allies to shoulder more responsibility for their own conventional defense.

Russia remains the top threat

Speaking after a meeting of the Bucharest Nine (B9), Rutte said Russia remains “the most significant and direct threat” to the alliance due to its ongoing war in Ukraine. “We cannot let down our guard. We will always do what is necessary to defend every inch of NATO territory,” he said, highlighting strengthened deterrence measures along NATO’s eastern flank and in the High North. He called for further increases in military capabilities, defense production, and spending ahead of this year’s NATO summit in Ankara.

‘Ball is in Putin’s court’ on Ukraine

Rutte explained that “NATO 3.0” envisions European members assuming greater responsibility for conventional defense while the US continues to provide nuclear and conventional backing. He praised President Trump for pushing allies to boost defense spending, noting that some NATO members are now planning to exceed the 5% target before 2035. Addressing tensions over the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, Rutte acknowledged “disappointment in the United States” over some allies’ reactions but said European countries have “heard the message.” On Russia-Ukraine, he stressed the need to continue supporting Ukraine militarily. “The ball is clearly in Putin’s court. He has to play ball. He is not doing that yet,” Rutte said. Türkiye, as a key NATO ally hosting the upcoming Ankara summit, continues to advocate for alliance unity and a balanced approach to both European and regional security challenges.