NATO chief's diplomatic efforts continue with high-profile visits UPDATED

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has embarked on a series of key diplomatic visits, aimed at strengthening ties with pivotal allies and addressing pressing global security concerns.

The latest development saw Rutte traveling to Florida to meet with US President-elect Donald Trump, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

Rutte’s flight to Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s residence, was made aboard a Dutch government plane, with NATO covering the costs, as the organization does not possess its own aircraft.

The visit comes as Rutte is set to engage with Trump on critical international matters, notably the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Rutte plans to discuss strategies for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, with the aim of convincing Trump that a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine would align with the interests of both Europe and the United States. The NATO Secretary General’s mission includes persuading Trump that a deal unfavorable to Washington could potentially harm his political standing in the upcoming presidential term.

In addition to his visit to the United States, Rutte is set to travel to Türkiye for another significant diplomatic engagement. On November 25, he will arrive in Ankara, where he is scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as well as Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yaşar Güler.

The visit will also include discussions with representatives from Türkiye 's defence industry, as well as a tour of the Turkish Aviation Industry (TUSAŞ) facilities, according to a statement from NATO’s press service.

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Since Trump’s election, European leaders have reached out to him, finding him more engaged and listening attentively rather than making demands. For example, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described Trump’s post-election inquiry into Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's plans and Putin’s intentions as calm and well-prepared.

These positive interactions reflect Europe's desire to foster a productive relationship with Trump amid geopolitical challenges, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

One of Europe’s key representatives in dealings with Trump is expected to be Mark Rutte, the new NATO Secretary-General. Rutte, known for his ability to engage with Trump, is likely to stress the importance of a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine that doesn't reward Russian aggression. He is expected to meet Trump at Mar-a-Lago soon to discuss peace negotiations.

Rutte also advised European leaders to engage directly with Trump, warning against relying on rumors or indirect discussions. He emphasized that if Russia wins the war in Ukraine, the cost of countering Putin in the future would be much higher.

Rutte urged NATO defence ministers to increase defence spending beyond the current target of 2 per cent of GDP to prepare for a potentially emboldened Russia.

By Vafa Guliyeva