Tête à tête - "NATO has been woken up by President Trump, and it’s stronger because of it" says Mark Rutte
France 24 Europe
by Marc PERELMANFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has highlighted how U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership, particularly his emphasis on increasing defense spending, has significantly transformed the alliance, making it stronger than ever before. In an exclusive interview with FRANCE 24, Rutte emphasized that while Europe is taking on a growing role in global security, NATO remains anchored by American involvement, which continues to be crucial for European and transatlantic safety. He also stressed the urgent need for more support for Ukraine, acknowledging that current aid efforts are falling short.
Rutte’s comments reflect the broader shifts within NATO as it faces new challenges from Russia and rising global tensions. The secretary general noted that Europe’s increased responsibility within the alliance has led to a stronger collective defense posture. While Trump’s push for higher defense spending initially caused divisions among NATO members, Rutte argued that these efforts have ultimately strengthened the alliance by ensuring greater burden-sharing and aligning priorities with emerging security threats.
The interview underscores the strategic evolution of NATO under Trump’s leadership, particularly in addressing Russian aggression and adapting to a more unpredictable global security landscape. Rutte’s remarks also highlight the delicate balance between European autonomy and continued reliance on U.S. leadership within the alliance. As NATO confronts new challenges, these shifts demonstrate its ability to adapt and strengthen its position as a key player in global security.
This matters because it sheds light on how NATO is evolving to meet modern threats, emphasizing collaboration, increased defense spending, and a stronger European role. The summary is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the alliance’s current state and future trajectory in an increasingly complex world.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/14/2026