NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte refused to comment on President Donald Trump’s plan for ending Russia’s war against Ukraine, which would allow Russia to maintain control of seized territory. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said he would step down if it meant Ukraine could join NATO and criticized Trump’s mineral reserves proposal. Rutte did not rule out eventual NATO membership for Ukraine, but Trump administration officials maintain that Ukraine will not join the military alliance.
Rutte emphasized that the alliance’s 2024 pledge regarding Ukraine’s entry into NATO is still valid and not tied to a peace deal with Russia. He did not disclose the amount NATO members will commit to spending on defense at an upcoming summit, but noted that it will address gaps in capabilities and align with a data-driven defense planning process. Rutte also highlighted the importance of addressing threats from Russia and China, which are both engaged in military buildups.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry made a surprise visit to Ukraine to meet with victims of the war as part of his work with wounded veterans. NATO allies are expected to spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense, but Trump is urging them to double that amount to 5%. The defense ministers will ultimately decide on the targets at the upcoming summit.
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