NATO Chief Mark Rutte Urges Stronger Defense at Antalya Meeting

Following an informal NATO Foreign Ministers meeting in Antalya, Secretary General Mark Rutte held a press conference stressing the need for a stronger “wartime mindset” amid rising global threats. He proposed that member states raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2032, with an additional 1.5% invested in infrastructure and cybersecurity. The proposal will be discussed at the NATO summit in The Hague in June. Rutte also reaffirmed NATO’s continued support for Ukraine and emphasized unity and readiness as the alliance faces increasing security challenges in Europe and beyond.