Europe and US need each other, Nato chief Stoltenberg says
The secretary-general of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, has said the US and Europe need each other during a ceremony commemorating NATO’s 75th anniversary.
Stoltenberg said that while the US provides security for Europe, it also relies on the military capabilities, intelligence, and diplomatic influence of its European allies.
“I don’t believe in America alone just as I don’t believe in Europe alone,” Stoltenberg said.
“I believe in America and Europe together in Nato, because we are stronger and safer together.”
His remarks coincided with NATO’s consideration of a €100 billion five-year fund to ensure long-term military support for Ukraine, safeguarding aid to Kyiv from potential disruptions due to political changes in the US or other NATO member states.
A $60 billion US package has faced delays in Congress due to resistance from Republican lawmakers, as well as from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, who has advocated for a swift end to the conflict.
Stoltenberg noted NATO’s growth from 12 to 32 member countries since its inception, citing Sweden and Finland’s decision to abandon neutrality and join the alliance following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In response to Stoltenberg’s speech, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked that relations between Russia and NATO had “slid to the level of direct confrontation” as the alliance was already “involved” in the conflict around Ukraine.