NATO chief Rutte courts Trump as alliance seeks higher defense spending

NATO SecretaryGeneral Mark Rutte used praise and personal diplomacy to keep U.S. President Donald Trump engaged during this week’s NATO summit in Turkey, even as Trump criticized allies over defense spending and revived disputes with Spain and Denmark. Rutte described Trump as a major driver of higher military spending by NATO members, referring to the increase as the “Trump trillion” and crediting him with helping push allies toward larger commitments. Trump, in turn, responded positively to Rutte’s support. The article notes, however, that some observers question whether Rutte’s approach has produced broader gains for NATO. Critics argue that flattering Trump may ease tensions in the short term, but it does not resolve deeper concerns about the alliance’s future or Europe’s security responsibilities. Other NATO leaders, including officials from Denmark, Finland and Latvia, struck a firmer tone while still supporting the alliance’s unity.