Russia (Parliament Politics Magazine) – NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned on 10 December 2025 that Russia views all alliance members as targets, urging immediate defence spending hikes to 3.5% of GDP amid threats from Moscow and its allies like North Korea. Speaking at the Halifax International Security Forum, Rutte stressed unity and rapid military buildup to deter aggression, as reported across global media including Reuters, BBC, and The Guardian.
Rutte’s Key Statements at Halifax Forum
NATO chief Mark Rutte delivered his address to defence ministers and policymakers, underscoring urgency. As reported by Reuters’ Andrew Gray, Rutte stated:
“Russia doesn’t just see Ukraine as a target. They see all of us as targets.”
He added:
“Putin believes that NATO is the problem, that NATO is the existential threat to Russia.”
Gray quoted Rutte further:
“He sees NATO not as a defensive alliance, but as an offensive threat to Russia itself.”
BBC News detailed Rutte’s call:
“We need to ramp up to 3.5% of GDP as soon as humanly possible.”
The report noted his reference to Russia’s military reconstitution, projecting 1.5 million troops by 2026. The Guardian’s Bethan McKernan reported Rutte saying:
“The threat is real, and it is imminent,”
linking it to North Korean troops in Ukraine and Iranian drones.
Al Jazeera coverage echoed: Rutte warned “Putin sees NATO as an existential threat,” urging spending beyond 2% targets set in 2014.
Context of Russian Threats and Alliances
Rutte framed warnings against Russia’s post-Ukraine strategy. Reuters’ Gray noted Moscow’s doctrine perceives NATO as offensive, despite its defensive charter. BBC highlighted Rutte citing North Korea sending up to 12,000 soldiers to Russia, Iran supplying drones, and China’s economic support enabling war sustainment.
As per The Guardian, Rutte stated: “Russia is not just fighting Ukraine; it is preparing for a larger confrontation with NATO.” DW.com reported similar, quoting: “They are reconstituting their forces at a pace we have not seen since the Cold War,” with 1.5 million personnel forecast by 2026.
France 24 emphasised Rutte’s view: “Putin doesn’t stop at Ukraine; NATO is next,” amid hybrid threats like cyberattacks and migration pressures.
Calls for Increased Defence Spending
Rutte pushed for spending escalation. Bloomberg quoted: “NATO countries need to spend more on defence – 3.5% of GDP – immediately,” criticising laggards despite 23 of 32 hitting 2% this year. Reuters detailed: “From 3% to 3.5% as soon as possible,” noting US President Donald Trump’s pressure.
The New York Times’ Eric Schmitt reported Rutte aligning with Trump’s demands, stating: “We must invest more in our security now.” Sky News UK cited: “Ramp up to 3.5% GDP defence spending without delay.” AP News relayed: “NATO must prepare for worst-case scenarios,” with capabilities matching Russia’s buildup.
Reactions from Allies and Critics
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth responded positively at Halifax, per CNN, pledging commitment under Trump. BBC noted European leaders like Germany’s Boris Pistorius echoing urgency.
Critics, including some left-leaning outlets like The Intercept, questioned escalation risks, but Rutte countered: “Deterrence through strength prevents war,” as per Politico Europe.
President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria, amid domestic turmoil, supported via statement, per Reuters.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
Rutte’s speech occurs amid Ukraine aid fatigue and Trump’s incoming administration. The Telegraph’s Joe Barnes reported: “Rutte warns of WW3 risks if NATO weakens,” tying to Russian gains in Donbas.
Euronews highlighted NATO’s Madrid summit pledges, now deemed insufficient. Rutte stressed:
“Unity is our strength; division is Putin’s goal.”
This follows his Saceur nomination of US Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich.
Historical context: Rutte succeeds Jens Stoltenberg, navigating alliance strains.
Media Coverage and Global Echoes
Outlets universally covered the address. Le Monde’s international desk noted: “Rutte sonne l’alarme: la Russie vise l’OTAN.” Japanese NHK and Australian ABC amplified calls amid Indo-Pacific concerns.
