NATO calls for increased defense spending against Russia

NATO calls for increased defense spending against Russia

Brussels, Belgium-NATO General Secretary Mark Rutte Warned the transatlantan alliance on Thursday Under the US leadership that it is not prepared for the threats that will come from Russia . He called for a change towards war mentality with significantly higher defense spending.

Need for higher defense spending

Rutte emphasized that future expenses must be well above the current NATO target of 2 % of the gross domestic product (GDP). "Russia is preparing for a long -term confrontation, both with Ukraine and with us," said Rutte during a speech in Brussels.

preparation for future challenges

"We are not ready for what is coming in four to five years," added NATO general secretary. "It is time to develop a war mentality and to increase our defense production and defense spending." NATO estimates that 23 of the 32 members will achieve the goal of 2 % this year.

comparison with the Cold War

“During the Cold War, Europeans spent much more than 3 % of their GDP for defense," noted Rutte. "We need a lot more than 2 %," he continued, referring to the increasing pressure of US President Donald Trump, who demanded that the allies spend 3 % of GDP for defense.

appeal to the defense sector

Rutte, former Prime Minister of the Netherlands, asked Allianz to increase defense production. He appealed to the governments, “barriers between each other and between industries, banks and pension funds.”

encouragement for Innovation in the defense industry

The NATO boss also addressed the defense industry: “There is money on the table and it will only be more. So you have the courage to innovate and take risks.”

warning of new threats

rutte also warned of a “coordinated campaign for destabilization of our societies,” which could contain cyber attacks and attempts at assassination. He also spoke of China's ambitions and expressed concerns that Beijing builds up his armed forces "without transparency and without restrictions."