Challenges and high expectations as Rutte starts first day as NATO chief

Former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte will assume the role of NATO Secretary-General on Tuesday (1 October), marking the start of a new chapter for the North Atlantic Alliance as he takes over from Jens Stoltenberg.

A seasoned leader with over a decade of experience, Rutte is expected to face significant challenges and manage high expectations in his new role.

NATO allies, while grateful for Stoltenberg’s steady leadership during turbulent times, are eager for change and look to Rutte for guidance on critical issues.

To shed some light on the challenges and expectations, we spoke to our defence and security reporter, Aurélie Pugnet.