In a presummit press conference yesterday, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said among other things that he expects NATO members “to present clear, concrete and credible plans” to spend 5 percent of GDP on militarization,” he said. “We will need more forces, more resources and a much stronger industrial base. After years of under investment, we are producing real capabilities. European Allies and Canada are now on a trajectory to equalize their defense spending with the United States. And not just that.
“They are taking on more leadership within NATO’s command and control structure. Stepping up on conventional defense—on efforts to bolster our deterrence and defense, including along the entire eastern flank, in the Baltic region and the Arctic. And spearheading support to Ukraine….”
Ukraine, Rutte claimed, “is changing the dynamics on the battlefield, thanks to the bravery, the dedication, and ingenuity of their armed forces. But they need our continued support, especially when it comes to air defence. Russia continues drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, with another horrific attack just last night.”
