In his speech in London on June 9, Mr. Mark Rutte frankly stated: Russia could use NATO offensive forces within the next 5 years, unless member states urgently increase defense spending to at least 3.5% of GDP, or even a total of 5% if including broader security spending.
The statement came just hours after Russia launched its largest UAV attack ever on Ukraine, forcing NATO to deploy fighter jets in Poland.
Mr. Rutte emphasized: "We see in Ukraine the way Russia spreads terror from the air. Therefore, NATO must strengthen sky shields to prevent disaster from spreading.
Russia could attack NATO. Not "if", but "When" - Mr. Rutte warned.
beyond the general call, he pointed out the alarming imbalance in defense production: Russia can produce in three months what NATO took a year to produce. If it does not change, we will fall behind and have to pay with our own security.
However, NATO is at a crossroads with the question being asked to member governments, especially the UK and Canada, whether to increase taxes to increase defense spending, or take risks from the threat from Moscow?
Mr. Mark Rutte even made it clear: "If you don't spend 5% of GDP on defense, you can still keep the health system and retire, but you should start learning Russian."
He is currently committed to spending 3% of GDP on defense by the end of his term, but according to NATO, that figure is still not enough. Meanwhile, Canada - which has been criticized for spending only about 1.4% of GDP - has said it will reach the 2% target five years ahead of schedule after Mr. Rutte's speech.
Despite recognizing the serious threat, the NATO Secretary General affirmed that the alliance was ready to respond: " Any person, including Russia, who attacks NATO will suffer the consequences of destruction". He also emphasized: "This is not just a matter of money and weapons, but also an attitude, will and determination".
In addition to Russia, Mr. Rutte also pointed out that China is accelerating its military development at a dizzying speed, a long-term challenge that cannot be underestimated.
