On Monday, January 26th, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte rebuffed calls from some European politicians to establish an independent European army. He emphasized that without the United States and its nuclear umbrella, Europe would not be able to defend itself.
Rutte, speaking at the European Parliament in Brussels, underscored that European countries should continue to assume more responsibility for their own security but within the framework of the transatlantic alliance.
“If anyone still thinks that the EU, or Europe as a whole, can defend themselves without the United States, then keep dreaming. You can’t do it,” Rutte told the parliamentarians.
He stated that without the US, EU countries must increase defense spending from the agreed-upon 5% target set by NATO last year to 10%.
“Without us, you will lose the ultimate guarantee of our freedom – the US nuclear umbrella. So, good luck to you,” Rutte said.
Rutte also mentioned that Russian President Putin would be “very happy” to see this idea materialize as it would weaken the European armies by dispersing their forces.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares and EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius have recently suggested the possibility of establishing a European army.
Rutte did not explicitly address these two proposals but dismissively regarded the overall idea. He insisted that despite President Trump’s call for NATO member Denmark to relinquish control of Greenland causing uncertainty, Trump and the US remain committed to NATO.
“I think this will create a lot of duplicated effort. If you want to do this, I wish you good luck because you have to find those men and women in uniform who already know all the situations,” he said.
“This will make things more complicated. I believe Putin would welcome it. So, please think again.”
Rutte told the parliament that if Europe truly wants to go it alone, the costs would far exceed the 5% of GDP that NATO countries have agreed to invest in defense and security. “You would have to establish your own nuclear capabilities – this would cost billions of euros,” he said.
Regarding Greenland, Rutte stated that he agrees with Trump’s view that NATO will “take on more Arctic defense responsibilities,” but Greenland and Danish authorities should negotiate the issue of US troops stationed on the island.
“I have not been authorized to negotiate on behalf of Denmark, so I have not and will not,” he said.
Rutte reiterated that Trump’s downplaying of NATO allies’ contributions in Afghanistan had caused dissatisfaction, and he had emphasized to Trump the cost paid by NATO allies for their involvement.
“For every two American soldiers sacrificed, one allied or partner – NATO ally or partner – soldier cannot come home anymore,” he said.
“I know the US greatly appreciates all the efforts made.”