Mark Rutte, Nato's secretary general, discussed the imperative for member states to increase defence expenditure to 5% of GDP, citing escalating threats from Russia post-Ukraine invasion. At a pre-summit interview, he highlighted a consensus among the 32 member nations to bolster spending, aiming for 3.5% on defence and 1.5% for broader security measures. Rutte warned of Russia's potential to attack Nato members in the coming years and underscored their military strength, noting the urgency for nations to fulfill their defence commitments amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Rutte emphasized the urgency of collective defence, stating, 'The security situation has changed so much...you now need to deliver...what you promised...be sure you have your stuff there.'
Speaking on Russia's ambitions, Rutte warned, 'It's clear that they want to extend their territory...they've been reconstituting themselves rapidly.'
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