https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202601/1354323.shtmlDeeply ingrained mind-set of dependence on the US by figures like Rutte a barrier to Europe's strategic autonomy - Global Times
Remarks by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte have once again poured cold water on Europe's debate over "strategic autonomy." During an address to the European Parliament in Brussels on Monday, Rutte bluntly stated that Europe is "dreaming" if it thinks it can defend itself without the US. When asked in an interview with Dutch media on Sunday whether Europe could ever be without the US, he responded unequivocally: "As far as I'm concerned, never."
Rutte's remarks come at a time when calls for greater autonomy and a more assertive stance within Europe have been growing louder, particularly amid rising tensions over issues such as Greenland and strained relations with Washington. On one hand, European countries are increasingly aware of the pressures reshaping transatlantic ties; on the other, NATO's top official continues to emphasize Europe's supposed inability to function without the US. This illustrates that Europe's aspiration for "strategic autonomy" faces significant resistance, particularly from figures like Rutte, highlighting deep internal divisions across the continent.