Rutte to MEPs: “We are safe now, we might not be safe in five years”
13 January 2025
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has warned MEPs that Europe is not safe from Russian aggression and that the continent could be at risk within the next five years.
Speaking at a meeting of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Rutte said that Russia is “a threat to our security and our values” and that the EU must “take action to deter further aggression.”
Rutte’s comments come amid growing concerns about Russia’s military build-up near the Ukrainian border. In recent weeks, Russia has deployed tens of thousands of troops to the region, along with tanks, artillery, and other heavy weapons.
The US has warned that Russia could be planning to invade Ukraine, and NATO has put its forces on high alert.
Rutte said that the EU must “stand united in the face of Russian aggression” and that the bloc must “impose tough sanctions on Russia if it invades Ukraine.”
He also called for the EU to increase its defense spending and to strengthen its military capabilities.
“We cannot afford to be complacent,” Rutte said. “We must take action now to ensure the safety of our continent.”
Rutte’s comments were echoed by other MEPs, who expressed their concern about the situation in Ukraine and called for the EU to take a tough stance against Russia.
“We cannot allow Russia to bully its neighbors,” said German MEP Elmar Brok. “The EU must stand up to Russia and defend the sovereignty of Ukraine.”
French MEP Nathalie Loiseau said that the EU must “send a clear message to Russia that its aggression will not be tolerated.”
“We must impose tough sanctions on Russia and we must increase our defense spending,” Loiseau said.
The EU is currently considering a number of measures to deter Russian aggression, including sanctions, increased defense spending, and military exercises.
The bloc is also working to strengthen its diplomatic ties with Ukraine and other countries in the region.
The situation in Ukraine is a major test for the EU. The bloc must show that it is united and that it is willing to defend its values against Russian aggression.
Press release – Rutte to MEPs: “We are safe now, we might not be safe in five years”
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