NATO will maintain its unity regardless of who wins the upcoming US election, asserted Secretary General Mark Rutte during a press conference in Berlin on Monday.
As allies in Washington await the election results with apprehension, Rutte emphasized that the alliance would collaborate with either Kamala Harris or Donald Trump.
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“Whoever wins the election, we will work together to ensure that NATO remains united,” Rutte stated alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
He expressed confidence that the next US leader would continue to support NATO, highlighting its importance to American interests.
Concerns are mounting among Western allies about the future of the defense alliance, particularly if Trump, whose presidency from 2017 to 2021 strained relations with allies due to his criticisms over defense spending, is re-elected.
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Trump has previously suggested that he might allow Russia to act freely toward NATO allies not contributing sufficiently to joint defense efforts.
In contrast, Harris has consistently underscored the need for cooperation with NATO, aligning with President Joe Biden’s stance on supporting allies.
Additionally, Western nations are wary that a Trump administration could lead to diminished military aid for Ukraine, which has been crucial for NATO’s backing of Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict.
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Rutte also addressed recent reports of North Korean troops in Russia, calling it a “serious development” and an escalation that necessitates enhanced security measures across both the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.
He remarked on the importance of collective action, stating, “This motivates us to step up and do even more.”
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Regarding Ukraine, Rutte noted President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to join NATO, which was presented as part of his “Victory Plan” to Western allies.
He pointed out that bilateral security agreements with Ukraine serve as “a bridge” to future NATO membership, affirming his belief that Ukraine will eventually join the alliance.
