Uploaded September 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stood alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels after the attempted Russian attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
Rutte said NATO and the European Union are united in the face of growing threats, and that cooperation between the two is essential for Europe’s collective defence.
He warned that Russia has become increasingly reckless as it continues its war against Ukraine.
Rutte pointed to more drones and missiles crossing into NATO airspace along the eastern flank, as well as malign activities directly targeting European territory.
He cited fires set in factories producing defence equipment for Ukraine and the Russian hybrid attack in Leipzig as examples of the danger Europe now faces.
The NATO chief said the Alliance and the European Union stand in full solidarity with Germany.
He made clear that if Russia thinks it can divide Europe or deter support for Ukraine, it is mistaken.
Rutte said NATO unity is unshaken and support for Ukraine remains clear, including vital air defence.
He also highlighted increased defence spending by European allies and Canada, saying they added more than $139 billion in extra defence spending in 2025.
His message was firm: Europe and NATO are not stepping back. They are investing more, strengthening industry, supporting Ukraine and preparing to keep people safe against Russian aggression.
#eudebates #MarkRutte #NATO #Ukraine #Russia
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stood alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels after the attempted Russian attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
Rutte said NATO and the European Union are united in the face of growing threats, and that cooperation between the two is essential for Europe’s collective defence.
He warned that Russia has become increasingly reckless as it continues its war against Ukraine.
Rutte pointed to more drones and missiles crossing into NATO airspace along the eastern flank, as well as malign activities directly targeting European territory.
He cited fires set in factories producing defence equipment for Ukraine and the Russian hybrid attack in Leipzig as examples of the danger Europe now faces.
The NATO chief said the Alliance and the European Union stand in full solidarity with Germany.
He made clear that if Russia thinks it can divide Europe or deter support for Ukraine, it is mistaken.
Rutte said NATO unity is unshaken and support for Ukraine remains clear, including vital air defence.
He also highlighted increased defence spending by European allies and Canada, saying they added more than $139 billion in extra defence spending in 2025.
His message was firm: Europe and NATO are not stepping back. They are investing more, strengthening industry, supporting Ukraine and preparing to keep people safe against Russian aggression.
#eudebates #MarkRutte #NATO #Ukraine #Russia
