Rutte Calls for Continued Support for Ukraine, Increased Defense Spending

Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands has called for continued support for Ukraine in its war against Russia, emphasizing that peace can only be achieved if Ukraine is in a strong position at the negotiating table.

Rutte made his remarks during a speech at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Madrid, Spain. He stressed that a bad deal for Ukraine would embolden Russia and its allies, including China, North Korea, and Iran.

"Peace will not last if Putin gets his way in Ukraine, because then he will press ahead," Rutte said. "I am convinced that peace can only last if Ukraine comes to the table from a position of strength."

To achieve this, Rutte argued that Ukraine needs continued military assistance from its Western allies. He called for more weapons and faster deliveries to help Ukraine defend itself and negotiate a favorable outcome.

Rutte also reiterated his call for increased defense spending by European countries, noting that this is a key demand from the United States. He argued that the current NATO target of 2% of GDP is insufficient to meet the threat posed by Russia.

"If we don't do it, we are safe now but not in four or five years," Rutte said. "So if you don't do it, get out your Russian language courses or go to New Zealand.