Indeed, the leading role in NATO has always been and is played by the United States. When talking about how the new secretary-general was chosen, one of Onet’s interlocutors, who knew the background to Mark Rudd’s election, accidentally blundered into explaining the reasons for Rudd’s victory, concluding: “That’s why Americans elected. Him.”
The above, of course, does not mean that the United States imposed its candidate on its allies, but Washington undoubtedly had the deciding vote.
Mark Rutte is the new Secretary General of NATO. Washington’s candidate won
Rutte was chosen by Washington for two reasons. First, because he took a hardline approach to Russia, the Netherlands under his rule clearly supported Ukraine, militarily as well. Second, even when he differed from more restrictive allies (such as Germany) on aid to Ukraine, he maintained excellent relations with them.
From Poland’s point of view, Rutte is a good candidate, although it should be remembered that he supported Nord Stream 2 for years before he took a clear anti-Russian turn. It doesn’t change the truth A signal that his electoral coalition will continue Jens Stoltenberg’s tough line Towards Russia.
The most desirable trait in candidates for this type of post is always the ability to compromise. The Allies needed someone who was tough on Russia, but who understood that Russia’s war with Ukraine would end at the negotiating table.
Although this does not disqualify Polish candidates, the lack of equidistance to the US and European allies is a fundamental weakness of all potential candidates from our country.
Theoretically only one pole was possible for the above position – As diplomats familiar with the behind-the-scenes talks at the alliance’s headquarters have repeatedly said in conversations with Onet – Alexander Kwasniewski. First, he is a former president, second, he is known for his tough stance towards Moscow, and third, he has high ratings abroad and in European capitals.
Even before Rutte’s candidacy was finally agreed, there was speculation within NATO that the next Secretary General would come from Central and Eastern Europe.. The problem is that it has to be a candidate from a larger country than one of the Baltic states. And we must understand the need to take into account not only the positions of countries that think like us, but also the positions of all.
Alexander Kwasniewski could be such a candidate. The problem is that Gwasniewski’s candidacy has no chance, because neither the previous government nor the current government has tried to fight for such a nomination.
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