Official budget reports from European governments

NATO Chief Urges 'Wartime Mindset' to Counter Russia, Amid Trump's Influence

Dec 13, 2024, 05:45 AM

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has issued a stark warning to the alliance's members, urging them to adopt a 'wartime mindset' and significantly increase defense spending to prepare for potential future conflicts with Russia. Rutte emphasized that Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with Ukraine and NATO, describing the current security situation as the most severe in his lifetime. He highlighted the need for NATO to 'turbocharge' its defense production and spending, suggesting that the current 2% GDP target for defense spending is insufficient. Rutte's call comes as Russian forces continue to advance in Ukraine, with Moscow increasing its defense budget significantly. The NATO chief's comments are also aimed at influencing the incoming US President Donald Trump, who has previously criticized NATO allies for not spending enough on defense. European leaders face the challenge of balancing increased defense spending with other voter priorities like living costs and healthcare.