By Tian Jingxin
On Jan. 21 at the World Economic Forum, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that U.S. President Donald Trump’s views on Arctic security strategy were correct, emphasizing that allied nations must unite to safeguard security and stability in the Arctic region.
At the international gathering—bringing together global political leaders, business executives, and strategic experts—Arctic security and the region’s geopolitical landscape emerged as key topics of discussion. The Arctic’s strategic importance has grown as melting sea ice opens new shipping routes, while competition over resources and great-power rivalry continues to intensify.
During discussions at the Davos forum, Rutte stated that he agrees with President Trump’s perspective on Arctic security and stressed that allies must take more proactive measures to protect this strategic area. He noted that eight countries border the Arctic, seven of which are NATO members, and that aside from Russia, no other country is capable of effectively ensuring stability in the region.
Rutte further explained that climate change is gradually opening maritime routes, while Russia and China are increasing their activities in the Arctic, making joint efforts to strengthen defense essential for regional security. He emphasized: “President Trump and other NATO leaders are right—we must do more there. We must protect the Arctic.”
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Rutte also said that European countries have significantly increased defense spending in recent years, particularly under pressure from the United States, thereby strengthening overall defense capabilities. According to internal NATO data, defense spending as a share of GDP in these countries has risen markedly over the past few years—from about 1.5 percent to nearly 2 percent or higher—an outcome partly attributed to Trump’s pressure and advocacy. Rutte noted: “Without Trump, it would have been very difficult to achieve this in such a short period of time.”
Key arena for international competition
The Arctic region is rich in natural resources, including rare minerals, energy resources, and newly opened shipping lanes, making it a key arena for future international competition and cooperation. In recent years, countries such as Russia and China have stepped up their strategic presence in the region, drawing close attention from NATO and the United States.
During the forum, multiple national leaders and defense experts underscored the Arctic’s central role in future security strategies. As global power dynamics shift and strategic competition intensifies, countries are reassessing Arctic defense and cooperation frameworks to maintain advantages amid competing concerns over resources, transit routes, and security threats.
Speaking at the forum, Rutte stressed that NATO member states must further strengthen cooperation and resource sharing to build a more resilient and sustainable Arctic defense system. He also emphasized that while Arctic security strategy requires military preparedness, diplomatic means and multilateral cooperation remain essential for resolving disputes and conflicts. Rutte said he would not comment on specific tensions, instead highlighting the pursuit of solutions through “carefully considered diplomatic approaches.” He added that NATO members should jointly address Arctic security challenges rather than relying on any single country acting alone.