Jerusalem: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned that Russia could attempt to keep Europe "busy" if China launches a military attack on Taiwan. Speaking in an interview with Germany's BILD newspaper on Sunday, Rutte said Beijing and Moscow were closely aligned and that any escalation in the Indo-Pacific could have direct consequences for European security.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rutte expressed concerns about the global connection between China and Russia, suggesting that China could pressure Russia to engage Europe if it takes military action against Taiwan. He emphasized the need for NATO to strengthen its deterrence in light of Moscow's readiness to absorb significant losses.

Rutte highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong Ukraine as a central factor in European security. He warned that a Russian takeover of Ukraine would have profound implications for NATO, potentially leading to increased spending beyond what was agreed upon in The Hague.

Discussions are ongoing about potential troop contributions, with several European countries willing to contribute if needed. Rutte noted that the structure of such deployment is still under consideration.

He also dismissed speculation about Washington's potential disengagement from Europe, commending US President Donald Trump's commitment to ending the war. Rutte credited Trump as the only leader who has managed to bring Russian President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table and urged continued focus on achieving peace.