Rutte’s Backers Are Pushing to Lock Him in as NATO’s Next Leader
- Dutch premier is strong favorite to succeed Jens Stoltenberg
- Some eastern European countries are still to endorse his bid
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Countries supporting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s bid to lead NATO have been working behind the scenes to make sure the race is wrapped up by this summer, according to people familiar with the matter.
The decision needs to be unanimous among the 31 North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies and the Dutch leader is already the strong favorite to succeed current Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg when his term ends in October. Nevertheless, some countries in eastern Europe have still to give Rutte their backing, the people said.