PARIS — NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized on Monday that Europeans are unrealistic if they believe the continent can ensure its own defense without the support of the United States. Speaking to the European Parliament, he underscored the high costs of independent defense and the necessity of establishing robust nuclear capabilities in Europe.
Rutte’s comments reflect growing concerns within Europe regarding the reliability of U.S. support, particularly in light of prior tariff threats made by President Donald Trump and a national defense strategy that prioritizes American interests at home and in the Western Hemisphere. The previous U.S. National Security Strategy urged Europe to take more responsibility for its own security, raising questions about the future of transatlantic partnerships.
In a notable response to Rutte, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot argued for the establishment of a European defense initiative within NATO. Barrot insisted that it is essential for Europeans to take control of their own security, highlighting the need for a European pillar that can complement U.S. support. He pointedly observed, “No, dear Mark Rutte. Europeans can and must take charge of their own security.”
The debate around European defense capabilities intensified following a call from European Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius for EU nations to explore the implications of a potential U.S. withdrawal, particularly regarding the positioning of the 100,000 American troops stationed on the continent.
While Rutte referred to the idea of a European defense pillar as somewhat vacant and potentially duplicative, some experts disagreed. Max Bergmann from the Center for Strategic & International Studies argued that Europe has the capacity to deter threats, particularly from Russia, if there is a commitment to bolster its own defense measures.
Rutte cautioned that achieving a capable European defense force would require much higher investment than the current NATO target of 5% of GDP dedicated to defense. He proposed that Europe would need to increase this spending to as much as 10%, highlighting the significant financial requirements for building an independent nuclear capability.
French President Emmanuel Macron had previously suggested extending France’s nuclear deterrence to its European partners, indicating a shift towards a more integrated security approach among European nations. Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil expressed openness to discussions with France regarding nuclear collaboration as well.
Rutte reiterated the mutual dependency between the U.S. and NATO allies, asserting the importance of a secure Atlantic region for American safety as well. He observed that the continuous flow of U.S. military aid to Ukraine remains crucial for the country’s defense needs, stressing the importance of prioritizing Ukraine’s requirements in any future financial agreements.
As Europe strives to enhance its own defense capabilities, the conversation about a more autonomous European defense framework continues, with much at stake in ensuring the continent’s security in the face of global uncertainties.