The new secretary general of NATO, Mark Rutte, has reaffirmed that the alliance will continue to support Ukraine as Russia’s invasion of the country drags on.
NATO’s new chief held a news conference at the group’s headquarters in the Belgium capital of Brussels on Tuesday. The former Dutch prime minister took over from his predecessor Jens Stoltenberg.
Rutte said support for Ukraine is one of his priorities, stressing that the alliance wants Ukraine to prevail in the end “because an independent and democratic Ukraine is vital for peace and stability in Europe.”
The new chief raised concerns over China’s actions, saying Beijing is delivering “dual use goods” to Russia. He said China is “an enabler of Russia’s brutal war of aggression.”
Rutte stressed the importance of cooperation with Japan and other countries. He said he looks forward to “forging a shared approach” to common challenges.
He also touched on a meeting of NATO defense ministers in mid-October. He said for the first time, partner countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan, will be invited to the gathering.
Rutte referred to speculation that the United States may take a less active role in the alliance depending on the outcome of November’s US presidential election.
He said he “worked with Donald Trump for four years” when he was Dutch prime minister, and has “been in close talks with Kamala Harris.” He added that both of them understand “what is necessary.”