Romania's president withdraws from the race to become NATO's next secretary general, leaving outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the likely candidate. NATO members discuss bolstering spending, the war in Ukraine, and countering aggression from Russia and China.
Key Points
Romania's president withdraws, clearing the path for Rutte
NATO members discuss spending, war in Ukraine, and countering aggression
Rutte's candidacy favored by majority of NATO allies
Pros
Likely show of unity and solidarity with Ukraine
Rutte's candidacy supported by big NATO allies like the US and Germany
Cons
Lack of consensus on a replacement for outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg