US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reaffirmed his country's commitment to NATO, calling on all member states to increase their defense spending amid growing challenges in both the European and Asian arenas.This came during Rubio's meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, on the sidelines of the NATO foreign ministers meeting in Brussels. The meeting addressed key security issues, notably the situation in Ukraine, as well as the challenges related to China and North Korea.Rubio emphasized that the United States remains actively engaged in the alliance, dismissing concerns about its dedication as "unwarranted hysteria and hyperbole."He stated, "President Trumps made clear he supports NATO. Were going to remain in NATO."Rubio also underscored the need for NATO to become stronger and more capable, urging member nations to increase their defense spending. Specifically, Rubio proposed that allies commit up to 5% of their GDP to defense, a significant rise from the current 2% target.This call for increased spending aligns with President Trumps position that NATO members should contribute more substantially to the alliances defense capabilities. Rubio acknowledged that achieving this higher spending target would take time and necessitate a realistic pathway for all member nations, including the United States.Rubio emphasized that the war in Ukraine serves as a reminder that "hard power is still necessary as a deterrent."The US Secretary of State also expressed his country's desire to strengthen cooperation with NATO partners in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, particularly in the areas of maritime security and regional defense. (