NATO general secretary reassures public over Putin's nuclear threats

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte wants the Alliance to more actively highlight its nuclear capabilities in the future to deter rivals, including Russia, and believes there is no reason for panic in the Alliance's member states.

Source: German newspaper Welt am Sonntag, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Rutte believes it is important for NATO countries to speak more openly to the public about nuclear deterrence so that people understand how it contributes to our overall security.

"When Russia is using dangerous and reckless nuclear rhetoric, our populations must know that there is no reason to panic, because NATO has a strong nuclear deterrent to preserve peace," he added.

The secretary general called NATO's nuclear deterrence the highest guarantee of their security, adding that it must remain reliable, safe and effective.

"And Putin must know that nuclear war can never be won and must never be fought," Rutte added.

Background:

• Last year, Rutte urged that nuclear threats from the Kremlin be ignored in the context of aid to Ukraine, explaining that he saw no signs of potential use of nuclear weapons.
• In October 2025, NATO conducted its annual nuclear deterrence exercise Steadfast Noon.

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