NATO Chief Warns Europe Can’t Defend Itself Without the U.S. Europe cannot protect itself without American support, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned in Brussels, as tensions rise over U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threats toward Greenland - According to Politico. Speaking to members of the European Parliament, Rutte dismissed the idea that Europe could replace U.S. military power, calling plans for a separate European army unrealistic and costly. He said duplicating NATO structures would weaken the alliance — and benefit Russia. Rutte stressed that Washington remains committed to NATO and argued Europe must keep close ties with the U.S., even under Trump. He also credited Trump with pushing NATO countries to raise defense spending to 2 percent of GDP. Without American backing, Rutte warned, Europe would face massive costs — potentially needing to spend up to 10 percent of GDP — including billions to replace U.S. nuclear protection.