Mark Rutte said in an interview with The New York Times that reducing the US military presence in Europe is not under discussion. This statement was made in the context of increasing discussions about a possible redistribution of American forces in connection with the changing geopolitical situation and priorities of the Donald Trump administration, which returned to the White House in January 2025. Rutte emphasized that the US presence in Europe remains a key element of NATO's collective security, especially against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and growing tensions in other regions. The statement by the alliance's Secretary General was a response to speculation about a possible withdrawal of some US troops from European bases, which has intensified following the change in leadership in Washington.

According to Rutte, NATO continues to strengthen its position on the eastern flank, including the Baltic states, Poland and Romania, where additional forces are deployed to deter potential threats. He noted that the United States, as the largest member of the alliance, plays an indispensable role in ensuring the security of Europe, providing not only troops, but also advanced technologies, including missile defense systems and nuclear deterrence. Rutte also pointed to the need to further increase the defense budgets of NATO member states to meet the challenges posed by Russia's actions, as well as China's growing influence in cyberspace and other areas.