NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte addressed the alliance’s ongoing discussions on Ukraine-Russia peace talks, emphasizing the urgent need for unity and vigilance amid escalating threats from Russia.
Speaking at a press briefing after the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting, Rutte said Russia’s attacks target civilians and critical infrastructure, worsening as winter approaches.
“Russia is demonstrating increasingly reckless behaviour — violating our airspace, launching cyberattacks, and deploying spy ships to map our undersea infrastructure.
These incidents underscore the need for unwavering vigilance,” Rutte said.
He stressed that NATO’s response must be one of “strength, unity, and resolve,” with European allies and Canada stepping up defence investments significantly.
However, Rutte urged all members to do more, calling for every ally to contribute fairly to reach the commitment made in The Hague of investing 5% of GDP annually in defence.
“This investment is crucial for developing core capabilities, including advanced air defence systems, to deter aggression and protect every inch of Allied territory,” he explained.
Rutte reaffirmed that support to Ukraine counts toward this 5% target, as it directly enhances NATO’s own security.
“Our support must continue unabated to help Ukraine defend itself today and deter tomorrow — for their sake and ours,” he added.
During the meeting, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Sibiya updated NATO on Ukraine’s urgent needs and progress toward peace.
EU High Representative Kallis highlighted the close cooperation between NATO and the EU in strengthening Ukraine’s resilience.
Through the Ukraine Requirement List (PEARL), funded by allies, essential lethal and non-lethal US capabilities, including critical air defence systems, are being delivered to Ukraine.
Rutte noted that over two-thirds of NATO members, including Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Poland, have committed resources to PEARL, with Australia and New Zealand also joining as partners.
“So far, more than $4 billion has been pledged to PEARL, putting us on track to meet the $5 billion target for the year.
This flow of aid is crucial as Ukraine faces daily attacks,” he concluded.
Rutte also welcomed US President Trump’s ongoing efforts to broker a just and lasting peace, emphasizing NATO’s firm commitment to Ukraine throughout the negotiations.
