NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte cautioned President-elect Donald Trump against brokering a Ukraine-Russia peace deal that could favor Moscow. Rutte expressed concerns that such an agreement could embolden adversaries like China, Iran, and North Korea, creating long-term security risks for both Europe and the United States.
Rutte shared these remarks in an interview with Financial Times, emphasizing the interconnected threats posed by hostile nations. He warned against a scenario where adversaries like Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Kim Jong Un benefit from a weak agreement. He pointed to evidence of Russia supplying missile technology to North Korea and financial aid to Iran, which strengthens groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Rutte stressed that ensuring Ukraine’s ability to negotiate from a position of strength should take priority over discussions about NATO membership. He urged Western nations to maintain robust military support for Ukraine. Rutte stated, “Whenever Zelenskyy decides to get into peace talks, he must do this from a position of strength.”
Trump, who will begin his second presidential term on January 20, has signaled an interest in swiftly resolving the conflict. He recently named retired Army Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg as a special envoy for the war in Ukraine. Rutte confirmed he shared his concerns about a possible agreement during a meeting with Trump in Florida on November 22.
Rutte, a former Dutch prime minister, has been a consistent advocate for NATO defense initiatives, including increasing allied defense spending. He began his role as NATO chief in October and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the alliance amid global threats.
