NATO Secretary General Rutte Warns of Russia's Expanding Aggression, Urges Urgent Defense Boost in Berlin

Rutte Delivers Urgent Warning in German Capital

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a sobering address in Berlin on Thursday, December 11, 2025, cautioning that Russia's aggression may not be confined to Ukraine and that NATO member states could become Moscow's next target. Speaking at an event hosted by the Munich Security Conference at the Bavarian Representation, Rutte called for an immediate and substantial increase in defense spending across the alliance, alongside continued robust support for Ukraine.

During his visit, Secretary General Rutte also held meetings with prominent German officials, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

'We Are Russia's Next Target'

In his powerful speech, Rutte articulated a clear and present danger, stating, 'We are Russia's next target, and we are already in harm's way.' He stressed that many allies fail to grasp the urgency of the situation, believing that time is on their side. 'It is not. The time for action is now,' Rutte asserted. He warned that Russia could be prepared to use military force against NATO within the next five years.

The Secretary General drew parallels to the Cold War era, referencing former U.S. President Ronald Reagan's warnings about an 'evil empire' and noting that President Vladimir Putin is now 'empire-building' once again.

Calls for Increased Defense Spending and Ukraine Support

Rutte reiterated his long-standing call for a 'wartime mentality' within the alliance, a message he has emphasized since assuming his role. He urged that 'Allied defence spending and production must rise rapidly. Our armed forces must have what they need to keep us safe. And Ukraine must have what it needs to defend itself – now.' He praised Germany's commitment to increasing its defense budget, highlighting its plan to reach 3.5% of its GDP by 2029 as a significant signal to other European nations.

The NATO Secretary General underscored the interconnectedness of Ukraine's security with that of NATO as a whole. He also noted that China's support is crucial for Russia's ability to continue the conflict, citing that approximately 80% of critical electronic components in Russian drones and other systems are manufactured in China.

Transatlantic Bond Remains Crucial

Despite recent discussions regarding a new U.S. security strategy, Rutte affirmed the enduring commitment of the United States to Europe and NATO. He stressed the importance of maintaining the transatlantic bond, stating, 'you cannot defend the U.S. without a safe Atlantic, and you need NATO to keep the Atlantic safe.' Interestingly, Rutte also commented on Donald Trump's role in potential peace efforts, suggesting that Trump is 'the only one who could bring Putin to the negotiating table.'

The Secretary General's remarks serve as a stark reminder to NATO allies to prevent a larger conflict by bolstering their defenses and providing unwavering support to Ukraine.