NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte delivered a stark assessment of the global security landscape, urging increased defense spending from European and Canadian allies during a Brussels address.

Speaking at a Carnegie Europe conference, Rutte voiced serious concerns about Russia’s ambitions beyond Ukraine and China’s growing assertiveness.

Describing the situation as the most perilous in his lifetime, Rutte highlighted the proximity of the conflict: “From Brussels, it takes one day to drive to Ukraine. That’s how close the Russian bombs are falling. It’s how close the Iranian drones are flying, and not much further, the North Korean soldiers are fighting.”

Rutte contended that Putin’s threat extends beyond Ukraine, aiming to “crush our freedom and way of life,” and declared a need for a “wartime mindset” given Russia’s preparations for prolonged confrontation.

Rutte’s comments precede the incoming administration of President-elect Trump, whose anti-war stance during the campaign contrasts with his calls for NATO members to meet their financial obligations. While Trump has stated he won’t abandon Ukraine, his plans for a peace agreement with Russia remain undefined.

Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, NATO members committed to allocating 2% of their GDP to defense. While only six nations achieved this in 2021, NATO anticipates a record 23 of 32 members meeting the target this year.

Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, NATO leaders have emphasized the 2% target as a minimum.

Poland and Estonia surpassed the U.S. in defense spending as a percentage of GDP in 2023, with the U.S. estimated at 3.38%.

Rutte, assuming the NATO post on October 1st, previously served as Dutch Prime Minister during Trump’s first term, earning a reputation as a “Trump whisperer.”

Hannah Ray Lambert contributed to this report.