NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has called on the United States to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine to help it fight against Russian aggression. He stated on Thursday (January 23) that Europe is ready to bear the cost of these weapons, according to a report by British news agency Reuters.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Rutte emphasized that Europe must invest more in defense, increase arms production, and take on a larger share of the expenses to support Ukraine.
Rutte’s comments come at a time when former U.S. President Donald Trump has urged the European Union to take greater responsibility in assisting Ukraine.
Rutte stated, “We need U.S. support on the Ukraine issue. If this new Trump administration continues to supply weapons to Ukraine, Europe is prepared to bear the cost. We must do so.”
He further noted that although the Ukraine war is a global crisis, it is closer to Europe. Therefore, Europe should take on a greater role in providing support.
In an interview with Reuters, Rutte said, “If the United States continues to supply weapons to Ukraine, Europe will bear the financial burden of that supply. This is fair.”
However, he did not specify the exact amount of this expenditure or whether any agreement had been made with European leaders.
During a Davos panel discussion, U.S. special envoy Richard Grenell criticized the NATO chief’s remarks. He stated that NATO members are not contributing their fair share, including the Dutch, who should play a larger role.
In response to Grenell’s remarks, Rutte said, “If Russia wins, it will further empower the leadership of North Korea and China. It is essential to prevent this.”
Rutte warned that the frontline in the Ukraine war is heading in the wrong direction. “We need to increase our support, not reduce it,” he cautioned.