Rutte: The Czech Republic is a reliable NATO ally; increasing defense spending is key

According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the Czech Republic has been a reliable ally since joining the alliance and is committed to contributing to collective defense. He recalled that, due to the global security situation, NATO decided last year to increase defense spending. Rutte said this after today’s meeting with Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO).

“Increasing defense spending is essential so that we have the forces, resources, and capabilities to protect our populations. We know—and this applies to all allies—that decisions on budgets and raising defense funds are not easy. In the end, however, security is the foundation of prosperity,” Rutte said.

He praised the continuation of the ammunition initiative, adding that it has a real impact and calling on allies to keep funding it. This year’s NATO summit in Ankara is expected to focus on meeting commitments such as higher investment in defense and boosting defense production, he added.