defense spending – 9xm News

‘Good luck, keep on dreaming’: Nato chief issues blunt warning to Europe on US role

Nato secretary general Mark Rutte on Monday warned that Europe cannot defend itself without the United States, pushing back against growing calls for the continent to reduce its military dependence on Washington amid rising transatlantic tensions.Addressing lawmakers at the European Parliament, Rutte dismissed the idea of Europe standing alone militarily. “If anyone thinks here again, […]

‘Dear Donald’: Trump posts Nato chief’s praise amid Hague summit trip; calls action against Iran ‘extraordinary’ and bold

Nato chief Mark Rutte (left) and US President Donald Trump (AP) US President Donald Trump has released a series of messages from Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte, commending his strikes on Iran and his efforts to push allies to boost defense spending.He posted a screenshot of Rutte’s messages on his social media platform, Truth Social, on […]

Who is Friedrich Merz? Germany’s New Chancellor elected after rare second ballot

Friedrich Merz, 69, a conservative stalwart and longtime rival of Angela Merkel, was elected Germany’s 10th postwar chancellor on Tuesday after a dramatic two-round parliamentary vote. His appointment marks a return to the national spotlight for a politician who once left public life altogether.Merz secured the chancellorship in a second ballot with 325 votes after […]