Speaking before today's European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Armenia, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte suggested the United States felt "disappointed" with European countries' response to the Middle East conflict. "European leaders have listened and clearly understood that message," he said.

The NATO leader affirmed that European member states are intensifying efforts to help the continent play a larger role and to make NATO stronger.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte speaking in Ankara, Turkey on 22/4. *Photo: AFP*

This statement followed President Donald Trump's criticism that some NATO countries had not adequately supported the United States in the conflict with Iran. On 1/5, US officials announced plans to withdraw 5,000 troops stationed in Germany, a further sign of Trump's dissatisfaction with European allies.

Spain, a NATO member, declared it would not allow the use of its territory's bases for an attack campaign against Iran. However, Rutte stated that countries such as Montenegro, Croatia, Romania, Portugal, Greece, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany are responding to US requests for base access and logistical support.

"They are ensuring that all bilateral agreements on military bases are being fulfilled," the NATO secretary general said.

Rutte added that more European nations are deploying assets like minesweepers near the Strait of Hormuz in preparation for the "next phase." Some countries are also ready to join a mission to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict ends.

Also at the event, European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas stated that the move to withdraw US troops from Europe had been discussed for a long time, but affirmed that the timing of Washington's announcement "still came as a surprise."

EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas speaking in Armenia on 4/5. *Photo: AP*

"I think that shows we need to strengthen the European pillar within NATO and do more," Kallas said, emphasizing that US troops deployed in Europe not only protect the continent but also Washington's interests.

European countries are increasing defense spending due to concerns about the risk of the Ukraine conflict spreading and the US commitment to NATO.

"Europe needs to take its destiny into its own hands, increase defense and security spending, and build its own common solutions," French President Emmanuel Macron declared.

European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen also argued that the continent must strengthen its military capabilities to defend itself.

By Pham Giang (Reuters, AFP)