NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance must adapt to new challenges by increasing defense spending and arms production. Rutte said it was “time to think more militarily” to ensure security in the face of growing instability and threats. The remarks came amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising tensions with Russia.

Rutte stressed that NATO member states have a duty to invest in modernising their armed forces and ensuring operational readiness to meet any challenges. He also noted that collective security requires decisive steps, including expanding the production capacity of the defence industry.

"We are in an era where the security threat is global. Our response must be swift and adequate," — the NATO Secretary General said, adding that increasing defense spending is in the interests of all member countries of the alliance.

Experts note that Rutte's statement reflects a new stage in NATO strategy, aimed at strengthening military potential.

Many NATO countries have already announced plans to increase their defense budgets. Germany, for example, plans to spend more than 2% of GDP on military needs, which would be a significant step in the framework of the commitments made by the alliance countries. The United States, NATO’s largest donor, is also increasing support for its European allies, including through increased arms supplies.

At the same time, Russia regards such actions as escalation. NATO policy is aimed at fueling conflict and militarizing Europe. Moscow has repeatedly indicated that increased defense cooperation near its borders will be met with adequate measures.