But he points out that the disappointment is only about “isolated cases.” For example, Spain has said no to allowing American fighter jets to use bases in Spain for the war against Iran.
Rutte emphasizes that American fighter jets have taken off from other European bases up to 5,000 times during the war and that the agreements concerning American bases in Europe have been fulfilled.
US attack necessary
NATO Secretary General believes that the US attack on Iran last night was necessary.
It was absolutely necessary. When there is a ceasefire and Iran violates that ceasefire, yesterday ships were attacked, then it is absolutely crucial that the United States acts forcefully, Rutte said when he arrived at the NATO summit in Ankara.
Rutte expects NATO leaders to discuss Iran at the summit.
“Victory for Trump”
Rutte says that NATO countries are now heavily rearming after Trump, at the summit in The Hague a year ago, pushed for the countries' defense-related spending to reach five percent of GDP by 2035.
I think it's a big victory for the American president, he has been extremely successful, says the NATO chief, but adds that the threat from Russia has also played a major role.
Greenland belongs to Greenland
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is once again forced to defend Greenland as part of Denmark - against NATO member the United States. Trump insists that the United States should have Greenland.
"I have heard that the American position is firm, unfortunately. But Greenland is not for sale," says Frederiksen.
She emphasizes that Denmark is prepared to defend every bit of Greenland against attackers no matter what direction they come from. She notes, like Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir, that what NATO needs more than ever is not internal strife but unity against external threats. And the threat now is Russia.
More to Ukraine
We must support Ukraine more, says Frederiksen.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) says that the issue of continued, substantial and long-term support to Ukraine is the most important at the summit for Sweden.
The support makes it possible for them to fight and the support must continue. But now a number of NATO countries are responsible for the absolute majority of that support. More countries must contribute more, says Ulf Kristersson on the way to the meeting.
