When it comes to keeping Europe and North America safe, there is no alternative to NATO, said the head of the Alliance, Mark Rutte, on Wednesday in Warsaw during a lecture delivered at the Warsaw School of Economics (SGH). As he stated, no one is capable of providing such security guarantees—including nuclear deterrence—as the United States.
Rutte delivered a lecture entitled “Stronger NATO, Commitment to Euro-Atlantic Security” at SGH in Warsaw on Wednesday.
Rutte: NATO Is Irreplaceable Amid Global Challenges, U.S. Commitment Remains Key
He acknowledged that the issue of transatlantic relations and the involvement of the United States in building peace in Europe is a “difficult debate.” Rutte emphasized that, at present, “we are facing challenges on a global scale that are far too great to address alone.”
He reiterated that when it comes to security assurances in Europe and America, there is no alternative to NATO. According to him, no one is currently able to provide the kind of guarantees—including nuclear ones—that the United States offers through the Alliance. “Strong transatlantic relations are our shield,” he declared.
Rutte expressed his belief that the United States will continue to be engaged in strengthening the Alliance. Referring to the presence of American troops in Europe, he stressed that Europe must be aware that “Uncle Sam” supports it, but America must also know that NATO allies will rise to the occasion. “That’s fair play,” he noted.
President Duda Highlights NATO’s Continued Commitment to Article 5
After meeting with Rutte, President Andrzej Duda also spoke. He emphasized that the NATO Secretary General once again confirmed that Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty remains in effect.
“If any attack were to occur—particularly if there were an attack on our country—the entire North Atlantic Alliance would come to our defense. This renewed declaration from the head of NATO, confirmed during his meeting in Washington, is significant to us,”
the president stated.