On Thursday (10 October 2024) NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte travelled to London for meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and UK Defence Secretary John Healey. 

The visit marked Mr Rutte’s first official trip to an Allied nation since taking office as NATO Secretary General.

Discussions focused on the UK’s significant contributions to the deterrence and defence of the Alliance, and support for Ukraine.

The Secretary General praised the UK’s enduring commitment to NATO saying “we are really appreciative of everything the UK is doing,” noting that the UK was one of just three NATO countries that was investing 2% of its GDP in defence when Allies agreed the guideline at the Wales Summit a decade ago.

Mr Rutte also announced the start of NATO’s annual nuclear exercise ‘Steadfast Noon’ on Monday (14 October) and commended the UK’s contribution to NATO’s nuclear deterrent. 

“In an uncertain world, it is vital that we test our defences, and that we strengthen our defence so that our adversaries know that NATO is ready and is able to respond to any threat.”

Mr Rutte also highlighted the UK’s strong commitment to Ukraine describing its provision of training, artillery and aid as “crucial”. 

The UK currently provides 3 billion pounds per year as its share of the 40 billion euro financial pledge for Ukraine that Allies agreed at the Washington Summit.