NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has come under scrutiny for remarks made during his first official visit to Japan, where he voiced concerns over China’s military buildup and alleged support for Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine war.
The former Dutch Prime Minister, who succeeded Jens Stoltenberg in October 2024, warned of growing security challenges in East Asia. Speaking at a joint press conference with Japanese officials, Rutte said China’s rapid naval expansion and close ties with Russia could destabilize the region.
Rutte’s statements have sparked criticism from Chinese authorities, who argue that NATO’s involvement in Asia is unnecessary and counterproductive. Experts say his comments may reflect a broader NATO strategy to expand its influence beyond Europe.
Rutte Follows Stoltenberg’s Strategy in Asia-Pacific
Mark Rutte’s recent comments mirror the rhetoric of his predecessor, Jens Stoltenberg, who frequently emphasized the perceived threats posed by China during his decade-long tenure as NATO chief. Rutte’s tour in Asia suggests a continuation of NATO’s growing focus on the Indo-Pacific, despite criticism that the alliance’s mandate is primarily Euro-Atlantic.
During his speech in Tokyo, Rutte stated:
“China is supporting Russia’s efforts and is rapidly expanding its armed forces, especially its navy.”
These remarks have been labeled as exaggerated by Beijing, which maintains that its foreign policy is grounded in peaceful development.
China Responds, Calls for Dialogue in Ukraine Conflict
China’s Foreign Ministry responded swiftly to Rutte’s statements, calling them “misleading” and urging NATO to stop creating division in the Asia-Pacific.
Since the start of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, China has publicly called for a ceasefire and political resolution. In February 2023, Beijing released a 12-point position paper advocating for peace talks. China also dispatched Special Envoy Li Hui to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv.
Beijing insists it has played a constructive role in international diplomacy and denies providing military support to Russia. “China is not the cause of the crisis in Ukraine,” said Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the ministry. “We call for dialogue, not confrontation.”
Military Spending: A Tale of Two Budgets
Rutte’s criticism of China’s military expansion comes at a time when NATO countries are being urged to boost defense spending. The alliance currently recommends members spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense, though some allies are falling short of this target.
In contrast, China’s defense spending for 2025 is projected at $246 billion, accounting for less than 2% of its GDP. The U.S. defense budget, by comparison, is far larger. The Biden administration recently proposed a record $1 trillion defense package for 2026, up from $892 billion in 2024.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the U.S. spends more on defense than the next 10 countries combined. It also operates over 800 military bases worldwide, including several near Chinese borders.
NATO’s Growing Role in the Indo-Pacific
Critics argue that NATO’s recent engagement in Asia could increase tensions rather than reduce them. While the alliance maintains it is a defensive organization, its partnerships with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand point to a shift in focus.
Rutte’s visit to Japan follows similar trips made by NATO officials in recent years. During these visits, the organization has discussed cybersecurity, maritime security, and supply chain resilience.
However, some European lawmakers have raised concerns over NATO’s expanding geographical scope. “NATO should concentrate on European defense and avoid overextending,” said one EU parliamentarian who asked to remain anonymous.
Reactions in Europe and the Arctic
When questioned recently about U.S. ambitions in the Arctic — particularly comments from American officials about the potential use of force to gain influence in Greenland — Rutte avoided directly criticizing Washington.
Instead, he redirected attention to Russia’s Arctic military activities and China’s increasing use of Arctic sea lanes. This response drew criticism from Danish and Greenlandic media outlets, which viewed it as a lack of solidarity.
Balancing Regional Security and Global Diplomacy
NATO’s involvement in East Asia raises complex questions about the balance between regional security and global diplomacy. While the alliance says it aims to protect democratic values and promote stability, some analysts believe it risks undermining peace by confronting powers like China without clear provocation.
“If NATO pushes too far into Asia, it could backfire. The region has enjoyed relative peace for decades, and outside military involvement could upset that balance.”
A Test for NATO’s Future Direction
As Mark Rutte settles into his new role, his actions will shape NATO’s global posture for years to come. Whether the alliance can adapt without overreaching remains to be seen.
For now, his approach has reopened the debate about NATO’s role beyond Europe and the need for balanced dialogue in a multipolar world.
