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The Independent

Nato boss says increase defence spending or start learning Russian

Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte urged Nato countries to commit to a 'credible path' towards spending 5 per cent of their national income on defence, citing the growing threat from Russia. Rutte suggested that if countries fail to meet the 5 per cent defence spending target, they 'had better learn to speak Russian,' implying a potential inability to defend themselves. While Rutte did not specify a deadline for reaching the 5 per cent target, which is more than double what the UK currently spends on defence, he indicated ongoing consultations with allies to agree on a date. The UK 's strategic defence review commits to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by April 2027, aiming for 3 per cent in the next parliament. Rutte highlighted the need for a 'quantum leap' in defence capabilities, including a 400 per cent increase in air and missile defence, warning that Russia could be ready to use force against Nato within five years.