Overview

• NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described China’s rapid military buildup as 'staggering' and highlighted its growing naval capabilities and defense investments.
• Rutte stressed NATO’s concern over China's military drills near Taiwan and its support for Russia, linking security challenges across Europe and the Asia-Pacific.
• During his visit to Japan’s Yokosuka naval base, Rutte called for deeper NATO engagement in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on strategic partnerships with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand (IP4).
• Japan is doubling its defense budget and enhancing military cooperation with NATO and European partners to address regional threats posed by China and North Korea.
• US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on NATO and Asia-Pacific allies to increase defense spending and bolster military capabilities to counter emerging threats.