NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte issued a stark reality check to European leaders on Monday, bluntly stating that any notion of the continent defending itself independently from the United States is nothing short of a fantasy. Speaking before the European Parliament, Rutte emphasized the unbreakable interdependence within the alliance. If anyone thinks that the European Union or Europe as a whole can defend itself without the US, keep on dreaming. You cant, he declared, underscoring the critical role of American military capabilities amid escalating global threats.

The comments come against a backdrop of renewed U.S.-Europe discussions, including recent talks over Greenlands strategic importance, where President Donald Trump had expressed interest before stepping back following dialogue with Rutte. Rutte also dismissed proposals for a fully autonomous EU defense force, arguing it would create redundancies and play into the hands of adversaries like Russia.

This follows years of pressure from Trump during his first term—and now his second—to encourage NATO allies to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target. While progress has been made since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Rutte noted that true European self-reliance would demand spending closer to 10% of GDP, plus massive investments in nuclear deterrence that currently rely on U.S. assets.

Frances foreign minister swiftly pushed back on social media, asserting that Europeans can and must take responsibility for their own security, highlighting ongoing debates over strategic autonomy. Rutte, however, reaffirmed Trumps unwavering commitment to NATO, praising his approach for driving tangible increases in allied contributions. As the alliance faces tests from Russian aggression and a shifting global order, Ruttes words serve as a call to action for deeper investment and unity. With key summits on the horizon, the transatlantic bond remains NATOs cornerstone.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from France 24.