When NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte addressed reporters at the 8th European Political Community summit in Armenia on Monday, his message was clear: Europeans have heard US President Donald Trump’s call for greater defence contributions and are now acting on it.
‘Yes, there has been some disappointment from the US side, but Europeans have listened,’ Rutte told reporters. He noted that a growing number of European nations are making sure bilateral basing agreements are being fully implemented, a shift that reflects a new urgency in trans‑Atlantic defence cooperation.
Among the actions, several NATO members—including Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Britain, France and Germany—are moving forward with requests for the use of bases and logistical support. Spain, however, has drawn a line: its military bases cannot be used for any conflict involving Iran.
Rutte also highlighted that a ‘next phase’ is in sight, with more and more European countries pre‑positioning assets such as mine hunters and minesweepers near the Gulf. These moves come as the United States has accused some NATO allies of not doing enough to support the US stance on Iran and announced plans to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany.
Meanwhile, multiple European nations have signaled willingness to join a post‑war mission to ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy supplies.
The developments illustrate a shifting landscape in European defence policy, where political declarations are turning into concrete steps on the ground. For business professionals and investors, the re‑allocation of defence resources could reshape security‑related markets across the continent, while for travellers and cultural explorers, the increased military presence may affect travel routes and advisories in the region.
Reference(s):
NATO chief says Europeans have 'gotten message' from Trump on defense
cgtn.com
