European reaction to NATO Secretary General Rutte's remarks on the US

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a very clear message regarding the European Union's dependence on the US in the fields of security and defense. In his speech at the European Parliament, Rutte stated that Europe cannot be militarily self-sufficient without the support of the United States and warned, "Those who believe that Europe can build an independent defense without Washington's help must face the facts."

Rutte expressed that European leaders abandoning US military support carries significant risks. Pointing to a potential increase in defense budgets, Rutte emphasized that for Europe to establish a security system without the US, it might need to spend 10 percent of its gross domestic product on defense. He also noted that creating an independent nuclear deterrent would cost billions of Euros.

In his speech, Rutte said, "If anyone here is rethinking whether the European Union or Europe as a whole can defend itself without the US, they should continue knowing that this is a dream. You cannot do it, and we cannot do it, because we need each other."

These remarks in the assembly found a wide echo, especially on social media due to their ironic tone, and became a target of criticism. Rutte's phrase, "I wish you the best of luck," was perceived as sarcastic and drew backlash from European politicians and the public.

European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho emphasized their current strategic focus, stating that a more resilient and independent structure should be aimed for in all areas, including security.

SHARP RESPONSE FROM FRENCH AND BELGIAN POLITICIANS

Rutte's statements caused particularly intense criticism in France, a proponent of strategic autonomy. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, in his response via social media, argued that Europeans have the capacity to take responsibility for their own security and must assume that responsibility.

Charles Michel, who previously served as President of the European Council, made a reference to the "daddy" term Rutte had used in the past for former US President Donald Trump. Michel criticized the Secretary General, saying, "Dear Mark Rutte, you are wrong. Europe will defend itself. Donald Trump is not my 'daddy,' he is yours. Because Europe's future requires vision, courage, and leadership. Not surrender or fatalism."

Although Rutte has played a mediating role in previous crises within NATO, this latest outburst has sparked a new debate regarding the future of defense and security relations between the European Union and the US.

While many European countries state that dependence on the US should be reduced and defense capacity should be developed, Rutte's words have brought concerns about the balance of power within the transatlantic alliance back to the agenda across the continent.