Russia’s actions have strengthened European case for boosting defence spending, says Nato chief – as it happened

Mark Rutte said that Europeans ‘increasingly understand’ the need for their countries to take ‘greater responsibility for our own security’

Addressing German ambassadors, Wadephul repeats that the Russian threat “has reached our doorstep and it’s tangible.”

He adds:

“The Russian attempted attack at the airport in Leipzig is only the most recent incident in a string of constantly growing Russian aggression against Europe and against Nato.

Russia and its partners operate with a global network against our interests and in favour of an own imperialist claim to great power status."