Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General, joined senior German officials at a joint press conference on November 13, 2025 at NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany.
During the briefing, Rutte highlighted the alliance’s preparedness and deterrence capabilities, saying that recent nuclear exercises had given “full confidence in the reliability of NATO’s nuclear deterrence.” According to Reuters.
The Geilenkirchen base is home to NATO’s AWACS surveillance aircraft and serves as a key hub for the alliance’s air operations. Rutte said the location underscores NATO’s commitment to collective defense and the alliance’s territorial preparedness.
The premier of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Hendrik Wüst, accompanied Rutte and emphasized Germany’s continued support for NATO’s unified structure and shared defense responsibilities. According to state officials, Wüst described Germany’s role as “crucial” in strengthening the alliance’s frontline capabilities.
Rutte noted the changing security environment in Europe, with growing threats from Russia’s military posture and concerns over nuclear rhetoric. He stressed that NATO must not only maintain its preparedness but also maintain a visible fear that enemies might “doubt” the alliance’s ability to defend its members.
German media reported that the visit and press conference were a reminder of Germany’s strategic importance to NATO, particularly given its geographical position and hosting of key infrastructure for the alliance. Wüst appeared to reinforce Berlin’s commitment to ensuring that NATO forces in Germany are well-equipped and supported.
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