On Thursday (16 April 2026), NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, had talks in Prague with the Prime Minister of Czechia, Andrej Babiš. They discussed the current security environment, defence investment, production, and Ukraine. The Secretary General welcomed Czechia's commitment to the Alliance.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Rutte highlighted Czechia's contributions to Euro-Atlantic security, including troops in NATO's Forward Land Forces, personnel with NATO's KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, and jets deployed for NATO Air Policing. The Secretary General underlined the importance of Allied defence investment in a more dangerous world: "Increasing defence spending is essential so that we have the forces, the resources, and the capabilities to keep our people safe." Mr. Rutte explained that more defence spending and production also "promotes economic growth, inspires innovation, and creates jobs."
On Ukraine, the Secretary General highlighted the vital impact of the Czech-led ammunition initiative. He also welcomed the announcements of further support by NATO Allies and partners at yesterday's meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Berlin: "Ukraine needs our help to defend against Russia today, be in a strong position to secure peace, and deter against any future aggression."
Mr. Rutte said he looked forward to working closely with Prime Minister Babiš: "We count on a strong Czechia in a strong NATO."
