Rutte says he ‘completely backs’ Trump on NATO but defends European military support
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Tuesday voiced support for President Donald Trump’s criticism of NATO but argued that despite some frustrations within the alliance, European members have provided support to U.S.-led military operations.
His remarks came after Trump renewed pressure on NATO allies to increase contributions to collective defense and support alliance missions.
“I completely back him on this when it comes to NATO,” Rutte said during an appearance on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier.”
“I know there is disappointment, but let’s also see these are isolated cases,” he added.
Rutte pointed to European support for military action against Iran, noting that thousands of flights originated from European bases to assist the mission.
“I totally understand the disappointment, but when you take, for example, Italy, 500 U.S. planes took off from U.S. bases in Italy to support the operation. So this is massive.”
He also highlighted logistical assistance provided by other allies.
“When you look at all of Europe, again, it’s between 4,000 and 5,000 sorties,” Rutte said. “A country like Romania — in its capital, Bucharest — had to cut down on commercial air traffic because the airport was being used as a tanker facility. So all this is taking place,” he said.
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