Stay the Course and Raise the Cost for Putin,’ Says NATO’s Rutte in Call for Ukraine Support

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for renewed and intensified support for Ukraine, warning that Russia’s growing alliances with China, North Korea, and Iran threaten Europe and global stability during his first official visit to Paris on November 12.

In a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Rutte underscored the dangers posed by military aid from North Korea and Iran, and economic support from China, which bolster Russia’s capabilities.

“We must recommit to stay the course of the war and do more than just keep Ukraine in the fight. We need to raise the cost for Putin and his enabling authoritarian friends by providing Ukraine with the support it needs to change the trajectory of the conflict,” Rutte said.

Macron echoed Rutte’s stance, emphasizing that Ukraine should have a central role in any peace negotiations. “Nothing should be decided on Ukraine without the Ukrainians,” he affirmed, underscoring Europe’s commitment to respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty in diplomatic efforts.

Previously NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed confidence that member states will increase defense spending beyond 2% of GDP, agreeing with Donald Trump’s prior criticism of European contributions.