NATO chief meets with President-elect Trump to discuss global security challenges

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte recently held discussions with US President-elect Donald Trump in Palm Beach, Florida.

The meeting focused on a broad spectrum of global security challenges currently facing the alliance, Caliber.Az reports citing the organization’s website.

In addition to his talks with Trump, Rutte and his delegation also met with Congressman Mike Waltz, whom Trump has selected as his national security advisor. The group also engaged with representatives from Trump's team handling international issues.

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.

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.

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