Rutte warned Russia, China, Iran 'don't have our best interests in mind'
Key Takeaways
- Rutte called for defence production surge.
- He warned of growing security cooperation.
- NATO urged to strengthen military industry.
The NATO secretary general warned that Russia, China, Iran and North Korea were increasingly working together and called for a major boost in transatlantic defence production.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for what he described as a "transatlantic defence industrial revolution," warning that the alliance faces growing security challenges from closer cooperation between Russia, China, Iran and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).
Speaking on the alliance's security priorities, Rutte argued that NATO members must rapidly increase defence production to respond to evolving global threats.
"Russia is pouring almost half of its national budget into its war machine," he said.
He also accused China of expanding its military capabilities without sufficient openness.
"China continues to modernise its armed forces and expand its nuclear capabilities without transparency," he said.
Rutte claimed the DPRK was continuing to strengthen its nuclear programme while supporting Russia.
"The DPRK continues to expand its nuclear programme and supply Russia," he added.
Turning to Iran, the NATO chief said recent US military action had weakened Tehran's capabilities but cautioned that the alliance should remain alert.
"While recent US action has significantly degraded Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, we must remain vigilant. These countries are increasingly working together," he warned. "I assure you, they do not have our best interests in mind."
Rutte said NATO must respond by dramatically expanding its defence industry.
"To meet the challenge, we need a transatlantic defence industrial revolution. The hum of machinery must become a roar. Now, that sounds dramatic, but it can be done," he added.
His remarks came as the Russia-Ukraine conflict entered its fourth year, with Ukraine continuing to receive military support from NATO member states. Russia has repeatedly criticised Western arms deliveries, arguing they prolong the conflict. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the continued supply of weapons "will not prevent us from achieving our goals."
Rutte's comments also followed the joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28, which Washington said was aimed at preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
