Pakistan, Jan. 27 -- NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has warned European leaders that the continent cannot defend itself without the support of the United States, particularly under the protection of the U.S. nuclear umbrella. He emphasized that Europe must strengthen its military capabilities to meet modern security challenges effectively.

Speaking to EU lawmakers in Brussels, Rutte urged Europe to double its current military spending targets to ensure preparedness against external threats. He stressed that collaboration with the United States remains indispensable, noting that the EU alone lacks the full resources needed for independent defense.

Rutte's remarks followed his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, which resulted in...