US President Donald Trump confessed to Mark Rutte, whom he received on Thursday at the White House, that he supported him for the position of NATO Secretary General, adding: „There was another person I didn’t like.” Rutte’s only opponent was President Klaus Iohannis, who withdrew from the race.
„I have always supported you, you have no idea. There was a rival I didn’t like. I wasn’t happy with him. And I think I kept him away from… I think you know what I’m talking about. I said you were the right man and I think Mark Rutte has been an excellent Prime Minister of the Netherlands,” said US President Donald Trump during a press conference held at the White House, alongside the NATO Secretary General.
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis was Rutte's only rival for the NATO leadership.
On March 12, 2024, Klaus Iohannis announced his entry into the competition for the position of NATO Secretary General, arguing that the decision is based on Romania's performance, the experience gained during his two presidential terms, a deep understanding of the challenges facing NATO, Europe, and especially our region, and his firm commitment to the fundamental values and objectives of NATO.
"I believe NATO needs a renewal of its mission perspective," said Iohannis.
There had never been any announced candidates for the NATO Secretary General position until Klaus Iohannis. Usually, the position was negotiated behind the scenes, and the new Secretary General was agreed upon by consensus.
The former Romanian head of state withdrew from the race and unblocked the appointment of Mark Rutte on June 20, six days before the official nomination of the Dutchman.
On June 26, Mark Rutte became the new Secretary General of NATO.