NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, in a recent MSNBC interview with Jonathan Lemire, affirmed the validity of former President Trump's 2018 criticisms regarding insufficient defense spending by NATO allies. Rutte's comments came in response to Lemire's question about how the alliance is preparing for Trump's potential return to the presidency, recalling Trump's near-withdrawal of the U.S. from NATO in 2018 and subsequent criticisms of the organization.
Rutte acknowledged that Trump's push for increased defense contributions was justified. He highlighted the substantial rise in European defense expenditures since 2018, attributing this progress to Trump's influence.
Rutte, speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, emphasized the need for continued growth in defense spending, stating that exceeding the 2% GDP target is crucial for maintaining a strong deterrent against Russia and other potential adversaries. This echoes the sentiment expressed by NATO leaders following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, who stressed the 2% target as a baseline rather than a ceiling.
Beyond acknowledging Trump's impact on defense spending, Rutte also expressed a desire for streamlined processes for European allies to purchase American military equipment. He pointed out the current complexities involving agreements from the Pentagon, White House, and Congress, advocating for improved access to the U.S. defense industrial base. Rutte underscored the mutual benefits of such improvements, both for European defense capabilities and the American economy.
Rutte's comments come as NATO data reveals an increasing number of member nations meeting the 2% GDP defense spending target. While only six nations reached this goal in 2021, a record 23 of 32 members are projected to achieve it this year. Poland and Estonia are leading the U.S. in the percentage of GDP allocated to defense, with the U.S. estimated to spend 3.38%.
Having assumed the role of NATO Secretary-General on October 1st, Rutte, the former Dutch prime minister, brings experience interacting with Trump during his first term and has been described as a "Trump whisperer."
