Dutch ex-PM Mark Rutte becomes NATO Secretary-General, succeeding Stoltenberg on October 1.

Former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has become NATO's Secretary-General, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg on October 1. He is expected to maintain continuity within the alliance rather than implement drastic changes, as NATO operates on a consensus basis. Rutte's diplomatic skills will be crucial in navigating challenges such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and rising tensions with Russia and China, while also addressing U.S. political dynamics.