Russia, supported by China, Iran, and North Korea, is preparing for a prolonged confrontation with the West. In light of this, NATO allies must increase defense spending and make the Alliance stronger to be ready to respond to any challenges.

This was stated by the Secretary General of the Alliance, Mark Rutte, during a speech at a meeting of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Ukrinform reports , Censor.NET reports.

“At the next summit in The Hague, Allied leaders will make decisions to make NATO a stronger, fairer and more lethal alliance. Because we live in a more dangerous world, and this is a critical moment for our security. There are numerous threats and challenges. This is Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine, terrorism and intense global competition, outbreaks around the world – from the Middle East to Asia. Russia is joining forces with China, North Korea and Iran, they are investing in military capabilities and preparing for a long-term confrontation,” the Secretary General of the Alliance said.

According to Rutte, in order to make NATO stronger, allies must first increase their defense spending. In particular, Alliance member countries must invest more in defense.

“We need more resources, more forces and capabilities so that we are ready to face any threat and implement our collective defense plans to the fullest extent,” said the NATO Secretary General.

He noted that defense spending of 2% of GDP is currently not enough. Rutte noted that some of the allied countries are setting much more ambitious goals, approaching or even exceeding 5% of GDP on defense.

Also, as Rutte said, the allies need more defense production, and therefore further development of the defense industrial base throughout the Alliance.

“We intend to increase production, accelerate innovation and remove barriers to cooperation. The Hague Summit will send a clear signal on the order for industry. Industry must respond to our needs. At the same time, increasing defense production will not only be good for our security – it will also be good for our economy. I expect Allies to spend more and better, spending together on critical capabilities for our armed forces,” the Alliance leader said.

Author:  Olga Gergelyuk Джерело: https://censor.net/ua/n3554464

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