A clear warning, towards Russia. NATO chief Mark Rutte warned on Wednesday that “an attack on Poland or any other ally” would be “devastating” during a visit to Warsaw alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
“If someone had to be mistaken and think that he can get away with an attack on Poland or any other ally, he would be confronted with all the strength of this fierce alliance. Our reaction will be devastating, “he said, citing Russian President Vladimir Putin by name. Article 5 of NATO, the cornerstone of the Alliance, provides assistance between its member states in the event of aggression.
Mark Rutte recalled that “Russia is, and remains, the most significant and serious threat for our alliance” and that Moscow was transforming its economy into “a war economy, which will have a huge impact on their ability to build their armed forces”.
Europe “must do more”
The NATO secretary praised in this context the growth of investment in defense in Europe and Canada. “But as President Trump said, and I agree with him, European allies and Canada have to do more,” he added. And to ensure that in “these uncertain times” “the transatlantic partnership remains the cornerstone of our alliance, and that will not change”.
Mark Rutte’s visit intervenes while the United States pushes a rapid outcome of the war in Ukraine, negotiations in which European partners were put aside.
“Taking into account the fact that at the moment, there are discussions, negotiations where, let’s face it, our influence remains limited (…) We owe all the more, as NATO members, we as Poland, to be ready for scenarios that are not entirely written by us,” said Donald Tusk.
Poland which is a firm support from Ukraine invaded by Russia, and which shares the border with the two belligerents, arrives far ahead of its NATO allies in terms of budget granted to La Défense, aimed at devoting 4.7 % of its GDP this year.