Former Dutch PM Rutte becomes NATO Secretary General, says Ukraine is among priorities

Bloomberg reported the information.

The outlet noted that the former Dutch prime minister, known for his pragmatic approach and experience in international negotiations, takes up the post in a time of significant geopolitical instability.

Unlike his predecessor, Jens Stoltenberg, whose term was marked by relative stability, Rutte is leading the Alliance in the midst of a full-scale war in Ukraine and tensions with Russia. 

His experience in dealing with various political leaders, including Donald Trump, is considered a key factor in his appointment.

At the same time, Rutte's position on Ukraine remains unwavering, although the level of assistance to Kyiv from the Netherlands remains lower than that of some other NATO countries.

Instead, Rutte played an important role in convincing the United States to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets.

Experts see his appointment as a positive signal, given Rutte's experience and skills in international negotiations and managing complex situations.

During the inauguration ceremony at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Rutte announced his top priority: ensuring the survival of Ukraine as a sovereign, independent and democratic state, reports European Pravda.

Rutte emphasized that the continuity of Stoltenberg's successes is important, but the main task for the near future will be to support Ukraine.

“Ukraine. We have to make sure that Ukraine prevails as a sovereign, independent and democratic nation,” he emphasized.

In addition, the new NATO Secretary General named among his priorities strengthening the Alliance's deterrence and defense, in particular by increasing military spending and improving collective defense.

Rutte also confirmed his intention to continue building NATO's partnerships with countries around the world. He emphasized that NATO's key mission remains unchanged: to defend Allies, their values and territorial integrity.

“One thing will not change, that is NATO's core mission, and that is to make sure that we defend our people, our nations, and, of course, our values,” he summarized.

• On June 26, NATO allies officially elected Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the new Secretary General of the North Atlantic Alliance.