NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed support for President Donald Trump’s approach in Iran, emphasizing its importance for the safety of NATO allies. He commented on Trump’s frustration regarding perceived insufficient backing from NATO members.

Rutte stated, “I think the president is doing exactly what is needed, degrading Iran’s nuclear capability.” He added, “Could you imagine if Iran would get its hands on a nuclear weapon? This is an exporter of chaos. It is an exporter of terrorism. It would be devastating for the region. It would be devastating for the whole world.”

Rutte’s comments followed Trump’s criticism of NATO, highlighting ongoing strain between the alliance and the White House. During a NATO summit, Trump remarked on spending concerns, saying, “The numbers that we spend are so crazy on NATO, and they weren’t there for us.” He noted his disappointment with allies’ reluctance to assist on minor issues.

“Stupid thing to say because we can say that to them if we want, and we might,” Trump added.

Mark Rutte conveyed understanding of Trump’s dissatisfaction but clarified that NATO allies have contributed militarily to support the U.S. concerning Iran. He mentioned, “When it comes to NATO, I know there is disappointment… Country after country, ally after ally after ally, have made their bases available for Epic Fury.”

During Operation Epic Fury, 500 U.S. planes relied on Italian bases, while Bucharest adjusted commercial flights to accommodate U.S. tanker storage at the airport. Rutte described continued allied support for U.S. efforts in defending the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that European allies have stationed assets near the Strait to assist in actions like demining.

Rutte fully supports Trump’s Iran strategy and credited him with strengthening NATO and encouraging increased defense investments. “When you look at the numbers of the investments NATO countries are now making in their own defense, it is staggering,” he claimed.

Rutte highlighted Trump’s influence in boosting defense industry jobs, production, and spending. He praised Trump’s peace deal with Iran, referring to it as a “historic peace agreement.” As Rutte prepared to meet Trump, he affirmed the president’s leadership. “All of this is leadership necessary to make sure we stay safe as an alliance to the United States, the alliance as a whole,” he concluded.

Nora Moriarty is a Production Assistant at FOX News.