NATO's Financial Expectations: A Call to Europe and Canada
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasizes the importance of increased defense spending by Europe and Canada, aligning with the United States' commitment to the alliance. Rutte reassures that the U.S. remains devoted to NATO's mutual defense pact, with no current plans to withdraw troops from Europe.

- Country:
- Belgium
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted the necessity for Europe and Canada to significantly boost their defense budgets. His statement comes as a precursor to a meeting with defense ministers in Brussels, stressing the United States' unwavering dedication to NATO's mutual defense agreement.
Rutte assured reporters that Washington maintains a strong commitment to the alliance, emphasizing that there are no immediate plans to retract American forces stationed in Europe. This pledge counters any speculation of U.S. disengagement from NATO at this juncture.
Amid global security challenges, Rutte's remarks underscore the call for collective responsibility within NATO member states, advocating for a more balanced approach to defense expenditure and strategic collaboration.
(With inputs from agencies.)