On February 15, 2026, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte delivered a strong message at the Munich Security Conference, asserting that the alliance has the capability to successfully confront Russia if it were to launch an attack at this moment. “We will win every fight with Russia if they attack us now, and we must ensure that the situation remains the same in two, four, or six years,” he said.

Rutte noted the significant toll the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has taken on the Russian military, reporting approximately 65,000 casualties among Russian soldiers in the past two months alone. This statistic underscores the challenges Russia faces regarding sustained military operations and willingness to engage NATO directly.

He stressed that NATO must maintain its readiness and resilience to deter any future aggression, indicating a commitment to long-term strategic planning amid evolving geopolitical landscapes. Rutte’s statements reflect a broader narrative among NATO leaders about the necessity of solidarity and preparedness in the face of potential threats from Russia.

The atmosphere at the conference was enhanced by discussions suggesting that even in the event of a peace agreement related to Ukraine, the possibility of Russian aggression could still loom large. Rutte's remarks were echoed by other leaders, emphasizing collective security and the ongoing resolve of NATO members to defend against threats.

In light of the shifting dynamics of global security, Rutte’s speech sought not only to reassure NATO member states of their collective strength but also to send a message to Russia about the consequences of any potential military actions against the alliance.