Mark Rutte dismisses Trump fears as he takes reins at NATO
The Hindu
Mark Rutte takes over as NATO Secretary General amid global challenges, vows to support Ukraine and strengthen alliance.
NATO's new chief Mark Rutte on Tuesday (October 1, 2024) downplayed fears over the impact of a potential Donald Trump victory in upcoming U.S. elections and pledged to keep backing Ukraine, as he assumed leadership of the world's most powerful military alliance.
The former Dutch Prime Minister steps into the role at a pivotal moment, as Russia presses its war in Ukraine, China flexes its growing might — and just weeks before voters in the United States head to the polls.
"I'm determined to prepare NATO for the challenges of the future," Rutte said as he formally took over as Secretary General from Norway's Jen Stoltenberg at NATO's Brussels headquarters.
The outcome of the November 5 vote is set to be the straight-talking 57-year-old's first major test — and will shape his initial four-year term at the helm.
On the campaign trail, U.S. former president Trump has threatened not to protect NATO members who do not spend enough on defence and promised he can cut a quick deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
"I'm not worried. I know both candidates very well. I worked for four years with Donald Trump. He was the one pushing us to spend more, and he achieved," Mr. Rutte said.
"I will be able to work with both, whatever is the outcome of the elections."
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