NATO’s Rutte Declares Alliance is “Turning the Tide” on Russia’s Ammo

UPDATE: NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced today that the alliance is “turning the tide” on Russia’s overwhelming advantage in ammunition production. Speaking at a defense industry forum in Bucharest, Romania, Rutte emphasized that NATO is now producing more ammunition than it has in decades, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

NATO’s previous assessments had consistently warned of Russia’s dominance in ammunition manufacturing, where the Kremlin was producing four times as much as NATO combined. However, Rutte’s remarks mark a significant turnaround, highlighting NATO’s recent efforts to ramp up production and enhance military readiness.

“We are already turning the tide on ammunition,” Rutte stated, underscoring the alliance’s renewed optimism. “Until recently, Russia was producing more ammunition than all NATO allies put together. But not anymore.”

As the war in Ukraine drags on, NATO countries are under pressure to replenish stockpiles of critical materials, especially the 155mm artillery shells essential for ongoing military support. Countries like Poland, Germany, and the UK have invested heavily in ramping up local production capabilities, with dozens of new factories opening across Europe in the past two years.

Despite this progress, challenges remain. The production of artillery shells can take months, if not years, with some estimates suggesting the United States military will not achieve its goal of producing 100,000 shells per month until mid-2026. Ukrainian officials estimate that Russia produced approximately 3.8 million artillery shells in 2024 alone, averaging about 310,000 shells per month.

The urgency of ammunition production is heightened by logistical challenges, particularly the need for essential components. The manufacturing of the 155mm shells depends on reliable supply lines for materials such as steel, fuzes, and propellant. Notably, the propellant relies on nitrocellulose, which is currently in short supply, creating a bottleneck in production.

As NATO continues to expand its ammunition capabilities, the alliance remains focused on addressing these supply chain issues. Rutte’s comments reflect a newfound confidence within NATO, which has struggled to match Russia’s production capabilities for years. The alliance is now determined to close the gap and ensure military preparedness for the challenges ahead.

Authorities confirm that NATO’s emphasis on increasing ammunition production is a direct response to the ongoing conflict, underscoring the alliance’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and countering Russian aggression. The coming months will be critical as NATO works to achieve parity in ammunition production and bolster its defenses.

As developments unfold, all eyes will be on NATO’s production progress and the impact it will have on the balance of power in Europe. The stakes are high, and the urgency for increased military readiness has never been greater.