Against the backdrop of Operation Epic Fury and President Trump’s frustration with military support from NATO allies, Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Washington to discuss the alliance’s evolving burden sharing. Moving away from American codependence and increasing European defense investment took center stage at this year’s NATO Summit in The Hague, and we hope to see the fruits of that in Ukraine, along NATO’s eastern flank, and in more balanced support for U.S. efforts in Iran. Following what he described as a “candid and frank” conversation with the President this week, Rutte shares frank insights on the alliance, its future, and America’s role in addressing present day challenges in Europe.

Mark Rutte took office as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s 14th Secretary General on October 1st, 2024. Prior to that Mr. Rutte served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands for almost 14 years. During this time, he presided over four coalition governments, with a distinguished record of domestic and international achievements including security, defense, employment and social affairs, and economics. He was a member of the Dutch Parliament and leader of the Dutch People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy. He is a strong supporter of global and transatlantic cooperation.

Read the transcript here.

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