During his first official visit to Paris on November 12, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called for ramped-up support for Ukraine, warning that Russia’s strengthening ties with China, North Korea, and Iran pose serious risks to Europe and global stability.
In talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, Rutte acknowledge the potential dangers of military support from North Korea and Iran and economic backing from China, which collectively boost Russia’s power.
“We must not only maintain our course in this war but increase the pressure. By supporting Ukraine decisively, we can raise the cost for Putin and his authoritarian allies,” Rutte stated in a press release.
Macron echoed Rutte’s message, stressing that Ukraine must have a central role in any peace negotiations.
“Nothing should be decided on Ukraine without the Ukrainians,” he affirmed, underlining Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty in all diplomatic efforts.
Previously, Rutte expressed confidence that NATO members would surpass the 2% GDP defense spending target, aligning with Donald Trump’s past critique of European defense contributions.
