Nato will stay ‘strong’ whoever wins French election, says Rutte

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte asserted on Thursday that the alliance would remain steadfast and strong, regardless of who emerges victorious in the upcoming French presidential election. Polls indicate that far-right candidate Marine Le Pen, who has raised doubts about France's commitment to Nato and Ukraine, has a strong chance of winning.

The elections in France will take place in May of the following year, and Rutte emphasized that Nato's unity and strength would persist, irrespective of the outcome. In a meeting with German diplomats in Berlin, Rutte expressed confidence in the continuation of Nato's key priorities, such as investing in defense and ensuring Ukraine's success in the ongoing war.

He cautioned against being naive about the threat posed by Russia, emphasizing that the alliance must remain vigilant. Rutte also acknowledged the recent far-right success of Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) in Saxony-Anhalt, noting that it has disrupted the political landscape in the country. However, he refrained from commenting on national politics, stating that Nato would collaborate with the elected leader of France and the remaining 31 member states.

Rutte, who served as the Prime Minister of the Netherlands for more than a decade, advised governments to adhere to necessary reforms for economic growth, emphasizing the importance of staying the course.