NATO chief Mark Rutte said on Monday that trade tensions triggered by US President Donald Trump would not affect the alliance’s collective deterrence.
After meeting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Rutte reassured journalists that while differences between allies are inevitable, they would not undermine NATO’s resolve to maintain strong deterrence.
Trump’s tariffs on NATO member Canada and threats against the EU have raised doubts about America’s commitment to European security, with some fearing a weakened transatlantic bond.
However, Rutte dismissed suggestions that Europe should defend itself without US support, calling it a “silly thought.” He emphasised the importance of unity, which he believes remains strong in the US, including within the White House.
On Trump’s interest in Greenland, Rutte suggested that NATO should play a larger role in securing the Arctic, calling it a key geopolitical region.