Dutch PM Mark Rutte gains US, UK backing for NATO chief

The United States and Britain have backed outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of NATO, putting him in a strong position to clinch the post.

Stoltenberg's successor when he steps down in October will take office at a crucial juncture, tasked with sustaining NATO members' support for Ukraine's costly defence against Russia's offensive while guarding against any escalation that would draw the alliance directly into a war with Russia.

"President Biden strongly endorses PM Rutte's candidacy to be the next Secretary General of NATO," a US official said on Thursday.

"PM Rutte has a deep understanding of the importance of the Alliance, is a natural leader and communicator, and his leadership would serve the Alliance well at this critical time."

Depending on the outcome of November's US presidential election, the next NATO boss may have to deal with a second term for Donald Trump, who recently once again called into question his commitment to defending NATO allies.

NATO leaders are appointed by consensus requiring the support - or at the least no opposition - from all its 31 members. Two diplomats said Rutte has the backing of about 20 NATO members so far.

Well-respected figure

Sweden is currently set to become the Western alliance's 32nd member - a move precipitated by Russia's military offensive on Ukraine in February 2022.

Rutte, who was already considered the favourite to fill the role, signalled his interest in the top job at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization last year.

The British Foreign Office said Rutte was a well-respected figure across NATO with serious defence and security credentials, and someone who would ensure it remained strong and prepared for any need to defend itself.

The Netherlands' longest-serving leader, Rutte unexpectedly announced his departure from Dutch politics in July but remains in post as a caretaker leader while coalition negotiations continue following a Nov. 22 election.

Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime minister, has served as NATO chief since 2014. His term was extended in July last year for a fourth time as the alliance opted to stick with an experienced leader rather than try to agree on a successor with Russia's war in Ukraine raging on NATO's doorstep.

Diplomats say Rutte is currently the only official candidate for the post. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins have also signalled interest but not been presented formally as candidates, diplomats say.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, whom some had mentioned as a possible successor, ruled it out on Thursday, saying she would turn down the job if it were offered to her.