Selection of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as NATO's Next Boss
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte selected as NATO's next boss amid war in Ukraine and uncertainty over US support, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg on Oct. 1. Rutte vows to lead with vigor and maintain NATO as cornerstone of collective security.
Key Points
- Rutte to take over from Jens Stoltenberg on Oct. 1
- Will face the challenge of sustaining support for Ukraine against Russia while avoiding direct conflict with Moscow
- Possible return of NATO-sceptic Donald Trump adds uncertainty to future US support for the alliance
Pros
- Rutte is a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin and a staunch ally of Ukraine
- Received early support from key NATO members including the United States, Britain, France, and Germany
Cons
- Reticence from some Eastern European countries who argued the post should go to someone from their region