NATO Appoints Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as New Secretary-General
Mark Rutte, the outgoing Dutch prime minister, has been selected to lead NATO as its new secretary-general, taking over from Jens Stoltenberg. Rutte’s appointment comes amid critical times for the alliance, particularly during the Ukraine war, and has garnered support from key member nations.
NATO has appointed Mark Rutte, the outgoing Dutch prime minister, as its new secretary-general, effective October 1. Rutte, who has led the Netherlands for nearly 14 years, will replace Jens Stoltenberg of Norway, who served as NATO’s head for over a decade. The announcement was made following a meeting of NATO ambassadors at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
Rutte’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as the organization deals with the ongoing war in Ukraine. His selection was endorsed by major member nations, including the United States and Germany, and came after Romanian President Klaus Iohannis withdrew his candidacy. Hungary and Turkey had initially opposed Rutte’s bid but later lifted their objections.
Rutte is recognized for his strong support of the transatlantic alliance and his vocal criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin. In his new role, he will oversee NATO’s major committees and represent the alliance internationally. Members will formally welcome Rutte during the NATO summit in Washington from July 9-11.