Debate grows over new NATO leader

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s mandate could be extended.

Sources told Reuters that the Norwegian politician has strong support within NATO. A source close to the matter and a US official said Stoltenberg, who has been secretary-general for 9 years and whose term has been extended 3 times, is expected to be offered to continue in his position for another year.

Stoltenberg’s term expires in October. While questions remain about who will be NATO’s new leader, discussions on the issue have gathered momentum ahead of the NATO summit in Lithuania next month.

STOLTENBERG WANTS TO REMEMBER

The source, who asked not to be named, said the Norwegian politician “continues to be an effective leader” in NATO. “The Biden administration is moving closer to having Stoltenberg stay in office for another year,” the US official said.

Stoltenberg has previously stated that he does not want an extension to his term.

To date, British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has announced his candidacy, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is among the possible candidates.