Part 2/10:
Fast forward to today, NATO's new Secretary-General, Mark Rutte, approached this suggestion cautiously during his first meeting with the European Parliament. Rutte emphasized that while he didn't want to commit to a specific percentage, an increase to "north of 3%" was likely necessary. Rutte’s statement highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing defense needs with existing social programs that many citizens hold dear, such as healthcare and pensions.
Although Rutte's suggestion is ambitious, it reflects the pressing realities of global defense spending. Countries like Russia reportedly allocate over 6% of their GDP to defense, showcasing the increasing pressures NATO countries face to enhance their military readiness amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.