On January 22, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a productive call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss key foreign policy priorities under the Trump Administration. The conversation focused on reinforcing the U.S. commitment to NATO and addressing the evolving security challenges facing the Alliance.
Strengthening NATO’s Defense Capabilities and Burden Sharing
Secretary Rubio reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for NATO, emphasizing the vital role the Alliance plays in maintaining international peace and stability. Both leaders agreed on the importance of ensuring NATO’s defense capabilities are robust and that member nations are meeting their defense obligations. They discussed the necessity for real burden sharing among Allies, stressing that all members must contribute equitably to the collective security of the region.
Addressing Russia’s War on Ukraine and Pursuing Peace
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine was a key point of discussion. Secretary Rubio and Secretary General Rutte underscored the importance of ending Russia’s unprovoked war and reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. Both leaders stressed the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while condemning Russia’s aggression and violations of international law. They emphasized that NATO will continue to support Ukraine’s right to self-defense while working toward a diplomatic solution.
Linking Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Security
A significant portion of the call was devoted to recognizing the growing interconnection between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. Secretary Rubio and Secretary General Rutte agreed on the need for greater cooperation and understanding between these regions to address global security challenges. They acknowledged that the security and prosperity of one region impacts the other, and that NATO’s strategic interests are increasingly intertwined with developments in the Indo-Pacific.