NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said he shares concerns expressed by US President Donald Trump about growing Chinese and Russian influence in Greenland, stressing that the alliance must be prepared to defend its interests in the Arctic.
“I share the view that there is a significant risk of the Russians and the Chinese becoming more involved in the Arctic. I think the President is right in saying we must defend ourselves,” Rutte said in Washington when asked about Trump’s interest in the Danish territory.
Rutte added that discussions held earlier this year at the World Economic Forum in Davos resulted in an agreement that NATO should play a more active role in the Arctic region.
Trump, who has repeatedly criticized NATO and even threatened to withdraw the United States from the alliance, suggested that his dissatisfaction “started with Greenland,” referring to tensions earlier this year when he did not rule out using force to take control of the island—an autonomous territory of Denmark.
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Following a closed-door meeting that lasted around two hours, Rutte said Trump was “clearly disappointed” with NATO but remained receptive during their talks.
The NATO chief also noted that discussions are ongoing between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States regarding two key issues: the potential implications of any future change in Greenland’s constitutional status within the Danish kingdom, and how to prevent China and Russia from gaining access to its economy.
Rutte acknowledged that some NATO allies were “somewhat slow” in responding to US requests for support in the conflict with Iran, but emphasized that most are now providing significant logistical and strategic backing.
He argued that allies were caught off guard by the February 28 offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, noting that Washington chose not to inform partners in advance in order to preserve the element of surprise.
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Speaking at the Ronald Reagan Institute in Washington, Rutte highlighted that European allies are stepping up efforts, particularly in securing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, whose reopening is crucial for maintaining the current ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran.
Despite Trump’s harsh criticism of NATO members—whom he called “cowards” for not supporting plans to secure passage through the strait—Rutte defended the alliance, pointing to initiatives led by the United Kingdom and others to ensure maritime security.
Rutte concluded by stressing that NATO is undergoing a period of “profound transformation,” with increased defense spending among allies marking a shift toward what he described as a more balanced and genuine transatlantic partnership.
