NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, stated that, in his childhood, he believed that Nicolae Ceaușescu would rule forever in Romania, emphasizing the positive path of the country within the EU and NATO.

Mark Rutte, the NATO Secretary General, made a surprising statement about Nicolae Ceaușescu, claiming that, in his childhood, he grew up with the idea that he would lead Romania forever. Rutte spoke at the Renew Europe Global Europe Forum 2026 about the importance of the alliance and the evolution of Eastern Europe, highlighting Romania's progress, which has become a member of the European Union and NATO.

He emphasized NATO's collective role and expressed joy in having Romania in this community. Rutte also discussed the challenges and responsibilities of his position, mentioning the decisions made at the NATO summit in The Hague, which strengthened the alliance by increasing defense spending to align with that of the United States.