NATO Chief Mark Rutte warns of long-term Russian military threat

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned that Europe must prepare for a long-term security challenge, stating that Russia’s military capabilities will not diminish in the near future. Speaking in Münster, Germany, while receiving the Westphalia Peace Prize, Rutte emphasized that NATO must remain vigilant against increasing hybrid threats across Europe, including cyberattacks, sabotage, arson, and airspace violations.

Rutte accused Vladimir Putin of attempting to intimidate and divide NATO allies to reduce support for Ukraine. He characterized these hostile actions as signs of desperation intended to make European nations pay a price for their assistance to Kyiv. Despite these provocations, Rutte urged allies to remain calm, maintain defense investments, increase military production, and continue their support for Ukraine.

In addition to Russian aggression, Rutte noted the ongoing military modernization and technological advancements in China as factors requiring sustained NATO readiness. He asserted that while a direct military attack on NATO is not imminent, the campaign of hostile activities is expected to continue.