Speaking today at Chatham House, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said that there is no longer “east or west”, there is simply NATO.
The remarks came as he discussed the speed and lethality of Russia‘s missile arsenal as he called on member states to increase spending.
He said: “Let’s not kid ourselves, we are all on the eastern flank. There is no east or west, there is just NATO.
“The distance between European capitals is only a few minutes.”
He warned that the impact of a Russian attack would be devastating.
He said: “We are deadly serious that if anyone tries to attack us, the consequences of that attack would be devastating, be it Russia or anyone else.
“This is not only about money and weaponry but mentality. We do realise there is a lot at stake here. The people trying to act against us must understand that.”
Mr Rutte also praised the UK’s Strategic Defence Review which laid out plans to increase in a host of areas crucial to the nation’s defence.
He added: I’m really impressed by the strategic defence review. It’s exactly what we need. The drones, the latest technology, investing in six factories producing ammunition.
“This is at the core of the UK defence review, including spending targets.”