NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged European allies to increase defense spending, saying Washington is growing frustrated with countries that still fall short of the alliance’s 2% GDP benchmark. His remarks reflect continuing tension inside NATO over how the burden of collective defense should be shared.

The warning comes as the United States has pushed partners to take on a larger share of military costs, a debate that has intensified since Russia’s war in Ukraine reshaped European security planning. Several allies have raised budgets, but others remain below the target and face pressure to accelerate.

Rutte’s appeal underscores a broader effort within the alliance to strengthen deterrence and reassure members worried about future threats. For Europe, the message is increasingly direct: invest more now, or risk more friction with its most powerful security partner.

The discussion also highlights a political reality for NATO leaders, who must balance domestic budget constraints with demands for stronger defense readiness. As the alliance confronts a more dangerous security environment, funding decisions are becoming central to its credibility and cohesion.