NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned on Tuesday that Russia’s increasing economic and military ties with China, North Korea, and Iran pose a significant threat to Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and North America.
Rutte’s comments, seemingly directed at the incoming US administration as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, stressed the importance of maintaining Transatlantic unity and continued support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia.
In remarks before his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Rutte highlighted the risks posed by North Korean and Iranian military aid to Russia. He also pointed out that China plays a key role in supporting Russia’s economy, bolstering its defense industry, and amplifying its global narrative.
“Russia’s partnership with North Korea, Iran, and China not only endangers Europe but also threatens peace and security in the Indo-Pacific and North America,” Rutte stated.
Blinken’s Response
A day after Rutte’s warning, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured NATO that the Biden administration would continue to support Ukraine in the months leading up to Trump’s presidency, while also working to strengthen the alliance during this period.
Speaking in Brussels on Wednesday after meeting Rutte, Blinken confirmed that the US would respond firmly to the deployment of North Korean troops assisting Russia in Ukraine.
President-elect Trump, who has previously questioned US military aid to Ukraine, has suggested he would end Russia’s war quickly, though he has not specified how. This has raised concerns among US allies that he might push Ukraine into accepting a peace deal on Moscow’s terms. Biden’s term ends on January 20.
Blinken emphasized that the outgoing US administration would ensure continued support for Ukraine to help it fight effectively or negotiate peace from a position of strength. He also noted that efforts would be made to deliver all US aid approved by Congress for Ukraine before Biden leaves office.
Regarding the deployment of North Korean troops to assist Russia, Blinken expressed concern over Russia’s relationship with Pyongyang, particularly regarding the potential strengthening of North Korea’s military, including its nuclear capabilities.
Rutte on Ukraine
Rutte reiterated that Russia has not succeeded in its invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
“We need to do more to ensure Ukraine can continue to fight and push back Russia’s offensive to prevent President Putin from achieving success in Ukraine,” Rutte said.
As Ukraine seeks to position itself for future negotiations, including by securing more military aid and holding its ground on the battlefield, a senior Ukrainian official noted that the coming months would be critical.
“We must remain committed to supporting Ukraine’s efforts and do more than just keep it in the fight,” Rutte emphasized. “We need to increase the cost for Putin and other authoritarian regimes by providing Ukraine with the resources it needs to change the course of the conflict.”
Macron’s Continued Support
French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed his commitment to sending aid to Ukraine for as long as necessary, stating, “It is the only path to negotiations.” He stressed that, when the time comes, decisions regarding Ukraine should not be made without the input of Ukrainians, nor should decisions about Europe be made without the involvement of Europeans.
