NATO chief warns of rising threats from Russia, China & Iran

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Wednesday that the alliance is facing great dangers on multiple fronts. "The dangers we are facing are great. From the Arctic to the Mediterranean, from outer space to the seabed, from missiles and drones to sophisticated cyberattacks," Rutte said. "Russia's war against Ukraine rages on; China's military modernisation and nuclear expansion - they continue. And Iran is spreading terror and chaos," Rutte added. Speaking after touring the facilities of Aselsan as part of his visit to Turkey, Rutte said production and innovation were key priorities for NATO, adding that the members will "celebrate" an increased contribution to defence spending after the summit in July set to be held in Ankara.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance faced great dangers from Russia, China and Iran, and had intercepted ballistic missiles heading to Turkey from Iran on four separate occasions in recent weeks, speaking after visiting Turkish defence company ASELSAN and meeting… pic.twitter.com/S6reRrvcVn

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Rutte also underscored NATO’s direct security role in the region, saying the alliance would do “what's necessary to defend” its members, including Turkey, after recent missile threats. “In recent weeks, NATO has successfully intercepted ballistic missiles heading to Turkey from Iran on four separate occasions,” he said, adding that the alliance had responded swiftly to protect its territory.