NATO and Germany confirm the strengthening of the European pillar of the alliance and joint work towards a lasting peace in Ukraine
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed today, Thursday, the importance of strengthening the European pillar of the alliance in the face of major geopolitical transformations, and the decisive role of Europe in supporting its security and stability at the present time.
The German Chancellor indicated, during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who is currently visiting Berlin, that Germany and Europe are investing systematically in strengthening their security capabilities, including defense policy, migration, and politics. Economic.
Stressing that these steps come from the standpoint of their national interests, and are not the result of external pressures. Mertz stressed that Europe needs unity and strength today more than ever before to face challenges, and that Germany is committed to leading a strong example that enhances the alliance’s ability to deter and defend.
He pointed out that Germany has allocated more than 108 billion euros for security and defense in 2026, stressing the commitment to achieving 3.5% of the gross domestic product to cover basic defense requirements by 2029. He considered that this step represents a clear message to any adversary that NATO is united and able to protect
For his part, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stressed that the alliance continues to support Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, stressing the need to work to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire supported by strong legal and material guarantees that preserve European security and the unity of the European Union and NATO.
Rutte explained that the allies are coordinating intensively with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, with European partners, and also with the former US president. Trump, to enhance the chances of reaching a lasting peace in Ukraine.
Rutte stressed that the use of frozen Russian assets in Europe will be part of efforts to support Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against any future attacks, while continuing to strengthen military and logistical support for the Ukrainian army.
The press conference also addressed European-American cooperation within NATO, and the importance of supporting the European pillar of the alliance, with a focus on Germany’s investments in land, air and naval forces to enhance deterrence and protect infrastructure. Vital.
He explained that the German forces form the backbone of the forward ground force in Lithuania, and support monitoring the Baltic airspace, while the German fleet protects the vital lines of communication.
Merz and Rutte stressed that joint action between Europe and the United States within NATO is the basis for ensuring security, stability and peace on the European continent, with a commitment to supporting Ukraine and its defense needs in the face of the ongoing Russian aggression.
Rutte pointed out that the intensive discussions with President Trump and the French President Emmanuel Macron and senior European officials focused on the path to reaching a ceasefire, including reviewing documents and developments over the weekend, and coordinating with the US government regarding any possible meeting in Berlin next week.
The issue of frozen Russian assets in Germany was also discussed, as Merz and Rutte stressed that these assets can be used to support Ukraine effectively, and not for the purpose of direct disbursement from the German treasury, while continuing to follow up on all legal and procedural details related to them.
The German Chancellor concluded the conference by emphasizing that That Germany is committed to leading a strong example for Europe, and that the Alliance works to ensure the ability to deter and defend, and to protect European freedom and prosperity, while preserving the unity and effectiveness of NATO.
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