Dutch PM Rob Jetten calls for stronger NATO alliance at Ankara summit

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten told reporters at the 36th NATO summit in Ankara that closer cooperation between European and U.S. defence firms and a more powerful NATO alliance benefit the United States as well as Europe. He highlighted that the Netherlands has tripled its defence budget and that many European allies have similarly increased spending, aiming to fund innovation against hybrid threats and to reinforce critical infrastructure. Jetten praised Turkey’s role as a key NATO partner and reiterated support for Ukraine amid the Russian invasion, while noting that diplomatic efforts on the Iran conflict will continue. The Dutch leader stressed that the increased spending is now embedded in law, ensuring future governments maintain the commitment, and called for expanded European industrial capacity and cooperation with Turkish manufacturers.