Rutte confident of Trump's support for NATO and Alliance's commitments
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has expressed confidence that US President-elect Donald Trump understands the importance of US membership in NATO.
"NATO is there not only to defend Europe and the US, but also to work together to make sure that the Indo Pacific and the transatlantic stay safe," he said art a press conference with Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs.
Rutte has reassured European Allies who have expressed concerns about Donald Trump's previous statements about Article 5 and the Alliance's responsibilities.
In comments to reporters, Rutte highlighted that during his time as Dutch prime minister, he had an excellent working relationship with Trump and expressed confidence that the US president-elect will act in defence of the United States while continuing to support NATO's role in global security.
Rutte stressed that Trump understands the importance of US membership in NATO and that the Alliance is an integral part of the security not only for Europe but also for a stable global order.
The Secretary General drew attention to the current global threats posed by Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. He emphasised that these nations are actively cooperating, which presents a direct threat not only to Europe but also to countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States.
Rutte stressed that North Korea is helping Russia in its military actions against Ukraine, while China and Iran are supplying Russia with technologies that strengthen its military potential.
"So we are connected in this. The Indo Pacific and the Euro Atlantic, we are connected," Rutte said, emphasising the importance of international cooperation to ensure global security.
He also expressed hope for further cooperation with Trump, particularly during his return to the US presidency.
"I had a good phone call with him last week. We have worked as friends when I was Prime Minister. We will do so again when he becomes the new president of the US," Rutte concluded.
In July, former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that he had no doubt the United States would remain in the Alliance if Donald Trump were elected as the new US president.
While congratulating Trump on his election victory, Rutte said that "his [Trump's] leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong".