NATO leader Rutte anticipates success of US peace initiative for Ukraine

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed optimism on Tuesday that the initiative led by the United States to bring an end to Russia's invasion of Ukraine will eventually succeed. Speaking to reporters in Brussels, he stated, "I believe that these ongoing efforts will ultimately bring peace back to Europe."

Rutte highlighted that Ukraine continues to rely heavily on military assistance as Russian attacks persist. He added, "I anticipate that allies will announce new contributions in the near future," referring to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), a funding program. This initiative allows ammunition and weaponry produced in the United States to be sold to European allies and Canada, who then supply them to Ukraine.

Germany has already contributed $500 million in weapons and recently committed an additional 150 million ($174 million) to support the program. Rutte cautioned, "While pursuing peace, we must remain aware of Russia's increasingly brutal assaults on Ukraine."

He pointed out that Russia is deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure, leaving Ukrainians without heat and electricity as winter begins. Rutte also noted that Russia is not acting alone, citing China as a key ally and mentioning support from Iran and North Korea.

Rutte's remarks came one day before a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, where discussions are expected to focus on further assistance for Ukraine and strengthening NATOs defense and deterrence capabilities. The meeting is likely to attract attention due to the absence of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, an uncommon occurrence for a formal NATO gathering. Rubio will be represented by his deputy, Christopher Landau. A State Department spokesperson stated that Rubio has participated in numerous NATO meetings and cannot attend every session.

The US decision may be partly influenced by internal perspectives viewing NATO as a potential hurdle to the implementation of President Donald Trump's recent peace initiative. An initial draft of the plan included proposals for NATO to halt new member accessions and suggested the US adopt a mediator role between NATO and Russia. These ideas drew criticism from key European members, including Germany, France, and Italy. US officials later clarified that NATO-related matters would be addressed separately with allies.

Rutte emphasized that he does not interpret Rubio's absence negatively. "I fully understand that he cannot be here," he said, noting the secretary's demanding schedule, which involves addressing not only Ukraine but a wide range of other issues. Rutte confirmed that he maintains regular contact with Rubio.

Author: Connor Blake