NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg called on the United States to remain engaged with Europe as the military alliance marked its 75th anniversary on Thursday amidst the threats posed by an assertive Russia and the possibility of Donald Trump’s resurgence.
Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of maintaining a collective approach, stating, ” “I don’t believe in America alone, just as I don’t believe in Europe alone. I believe in America and Europe together in NATO because we are stronger and safer together.”
NATO celebrated its 75th anniversary on Thursday amidst increasing pressure to support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict that has gripped Europe.
Foreign ministers from NATO’s 32 member countries gathered at the organization’s Brussels headquarters to commemorate its legacy as the “most powerful and successful alliance in history.”
Despite the festivities, NATO finds itself in the midst of one of its most formidable challenges since its inception in 1949 following World War II.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the need for continued action, stating, “Europe is currently experiencing a level of conflict we believed belonged to the past.”
Since Russia’s aggressive invasion of Ukraine two years ago, NATO has expanded by adding Finland and Sweden to its ranks, reinforcing its presence in eastern Europe.
Member countries have extended substantial support to Kyiv, including billions of dollars’ worth of weapons, but supplies have dwindled due to political disputes, notably from the United States, a key NATO power.
Ukraine, facing relentless missile attacks from Russia, has appealed for additional Patriot defense systems from its Western allies.
Stoltenberg has proposed a 100-billion-euro fund over five years to provide long-term assistance to Ukraine, urging NATO to take a more active role in coordinating aid despite reservations about escalating tensions with Russia.
Amid concerns about the potential impact of a return of former U.S. President Donald Trump on NATO’s support for Ukraine, the alliance has intensified efforts to ensure European members meet defense spending targets. With 20 NATO countries expected to exceed the two percent GDP spending threshold this year, NATO aims to strengthen its stance on mutual defense, a cornerstone of European security for over seven decades.
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron stressed the importance of meeting defense spending commitments to uphold the alliance’s cohesion and resilience.
