Rob Jetten: Baltic Security Is European Security

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten said Europe is facing a new security reality and must be ready to do more to defend itself within NATO. Speaking in Münster alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Jetten said military deterrence is essential for preserving peace in Europe. “European military deterrence in the context of NATO is essential for peace in Europe.” He pointed to what he described as a rapidly increasing Russian threat, including pressure in the Baltic region, the activities of Russia’s shadow fleet in the North Sea and recent drone incidents in Germany. “Europe is facing a new security reality.” Jetten said that under growing pressure, Europe must demonstrate that it is prepared to defend its security. “We are prepared to do whatever it takes to protect our security.” He highlighted higher defence spending, stronger protection of NATO’s eastern flank and increased military cooperation between Germany and the Netherlands. The Netherlands is contributing F-35s and other capabilities, while defence industries in both countries are expanding joint production. Jetten also stressed the importance of intelligence cooperation to address hybrid threats. He said Germany and the Netherlands are natural allies and trusted partners inside both the European Union and NATO. “We are guardians of the international legal order.” Jetten also reaffirmed support for Ukraine, linking Ukraine’s defence directly to European security. He praised the 1st German-Netherlands Corps as a model of European military cooperation. Since 1 July, the corps has served as NATO’s tactical headquarters in Latvia and Estonia. Jetten said its role on NATO’s eastern flank demonstrates that security in the Baltic states is inseparable from wider European security. “Security in the Baltic states is part and parcel of European security, German security and Dutch security.” He concluded by calling the corps a strong example of Europeans taking greater responsibility for their own security within NATO. #eudebates #RobJetten #NATO #EuropeanSecurity #Netherlands