Rutte Calls NATO's Defense Spending Pledge Trump's Greatest Diplomatic Achievement

Wed Dec 17 2025 22:43:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent interview, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte praised Donald Trump's influence on NATO, highlighting a new commitment for member countries to significantly boost defense budgets as a monumental shift in international relations.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte acknowledged Donald Trump's role in strengthening NATO during an interview with the BBC, calling the alliance's commitment to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035 Trump's 'biggest foreign policy success.' This shift comes in response to perceived threats from Russia and aims to enhance collective defense efforts, particularly in context with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In a vivid reflection of shifting global alliances and increased military expenditure, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has lauded Donald Trump as a pivotal figure behind NATO's renewed commitment to defense spending. In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Rutte stated that the commitment to allocate 5% of economic output for defense marks a significant achievement of Trump's presidency.

Rutte noted, Thanks to Trump, NATO is now stronger than ever, emphasizing its crucial role in ensuring collective security for member countries, particularly concerning the ongoing tensions in Ukraine.

Under Trump's presidency, NATO faced intense pressure as he critiqued European allies for their insufficient defense budgets. His threats to withdraw U.S. military support unless spending increased led to tangible policy shifts within the alliance.

The NATO chief recently warned of potential Russian aggression against member states within the next five years, a scenario dismissed by President Vladimir Putin as hysteria. Amidst these tensions, NATO's commitment is seen as essential to deter future threats, with plans being laid for increased military presence and support in Europe.

Rutte's remarks coincide with U.S. diplomatic engagements aimed at formulating a peace plan concerning Ukraine, sparked by escalating demands for territorial concessions to Russia. Yet, he remains hopeful about the outcomes of ongoing negotiations, underscoring the need for proactive defense spending against Russia's ambitions.

As NATO adapts to geopolitical dynamics, Rutte’s endorsement of Trump’s legacy serves as a reminder of how foreign policy can radically transform military preparedness in the face of emerging threats.