NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday said U.S. President Donald Trump is doing the right thing for the alliance by encouraging higher defense spending among member states and stressed that all allies agree on the strategic importance of Arctic security.
Speaking at a joint news conference with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković in Zagreb, Rutte said Trump’s push for increased defense budgets helps member states “match U.S. spending” and strengthens NATO’s overall capabilities.
“All allies recognize the importance of Arctic security,” Rutte added, citing risks from Russian and Chinese activity as Arctic shipping routes open. NATO is discussing measures to address these challenges, he said.
When asked about U.S. claims over Greenland, Rutte emphasized that NATO’s priority is keeping the Arctic secure. Plenković echoed the need for mutual respect among allies, including the United States, and said constructive dialogue could resolve disputes over Greenland, which is part of Denmark.
Rutte arrived in Croatia as part of a regional tour of NATO member states. During his visit, he toured the “Colonel Marko Živković” barracks in Pleso with Plenković, where he observed French Rafale fighter jets, Turkish Bayraktar drones, and U.S. UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. He later met with government officials and representatives of the Croatian defense industry.
In their joint statement, Rutte praised Croatia as a committed NATO member since 2009, highlighting its role in regional stabilization and participation in Kosovo missions. “There will be no security vacuum,” he said, describing Croatia as a “key partner.”
Rutte also noted Croatia’s support for Ukraine, contributing over €300 million in equipment, helicopters, and protective gear since 2022. “Ukraine’s security is our security,” he said.
On Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, Rutte said the issue remains contentious, with some allies, including Hungary, expressing reservations. He stressed that NATO’s focus is on ensuring Russia cannot launch future attacks after a peace settlement.
Plenković highlighted Croatia’s defense modernization efforts, noting that the country allocated 2.08% of GDP to defense in 2025 and participates in five international missions with around 270 troops. He said Ukraine is defending not just its freedom but European democracy and values.
Croatia will host an informal NATO foreign ministers meeting next spring, Plenković added. Rutte is also scheduled to meet Croatian President and Commander-in-Chief Zoran Milanović, after which a statement will be released.
Earlier, Milanović welcomed Rutte but criticized him as not being the decision-maker or controlling funds, saying, “When he speaks, it is unclear on whose behalf, and he says many things I do not support.”