Rutte: NATO is a defensive alliance – we will never attack anyone, we will protect our democracy and territory

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reiterated today that the Alliance views Russia as a threat, adding that on the second day of the summit in Ankara it will also address support for Ukraine, Iran, and the Strait of Hormuz, which, he stressed, must remain open to navigation.

Responding to a journalist's question about his message to Russia and President Vladimir Putin, Rutte said the Alliance represents one billion people from Canada, the United States, and Europe, and that it will protect every inch of its territory.

"NATO is a defensive alliance. We will never attack anyone. We will only protect our way of life, our democracy, and our territory. Don't play with us. That is the message," Rutte said.

He also stated that the recent US strikes on Iran were absolutely necessary, arguing that Washington had to respond decisively because Iran had violated the ceasefire.

Speaking about relations within the Alliance, Rutte said there is full commitment by US President Donald Trump to NATO, but that Washington also rightfully expects the European member states and Canada to increase their defense spending and share the Alliance's burden more evenly.

The NATO secretary general also expressed satisfaction with the summit in Ankara, saying that this year's focus is on implementing what was agreed at last year's summit in The Hague.