Europe reaffirms NATO unity with increased defence spending
The NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, announced an increase in defence spending in Europe, emphasising support for Ukraine and the strength of the Alliance. "Everyone in Europe will have to contribute more," he stated.
The NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, expressed optimism ahead of the summit in London, highlighting that Europe plans to increase defence spending. This decision aims to support Ukraine and maintain NATO's strength. Rutte emphasised that everyone in Europe will need to contribute to this effort.
Europe responds to Trump's policy: "Everyone will have to give more"
"Everyone in Europe will have to contribute more" Mark Rutte unequivocally stated. This is in response to the recent actions of Donald Trump. The US administration has reservations that many NATO countries are not spending adequate amounts on defence.
At the same time, following Friday's dispute at the White House, the further support of the United States for Ukraine is in question. During his visit to Washington, Volodymyr Zelensky was supposed to sign an agreement on cooperation with the USA in extracting valuable resources. However, this did not occur as the Ukrainian leader got into a quarrel with Donald Trump and J.D. Vance.
During the London summit, Rutte planned to focus on three main issues. The first is support for Ukraine, which requires increased financial commitment from European countries. The second priority is striving for a lasting peace agreement for Ukraine, which is essential for Europe. The third key aspect is maintaining NATO's strength by increasing defence spending.
At a special meeting organised by the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, leading world leaders participated, including Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Also present were Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and representatives from Spain, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Czechia, and Romania. Turkey was represented by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa also attended the meeting. Their presence underscores the European Union's commitment to defence issues and support for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also participated in the meeting, further highlighting the importance of the discussed topics.
