In an interview with NPR's Leila Fadel, outgoing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the vital importance of unity between North America and its transatlantic allies in the face of a full-scale war in Europe and escalating global tensions. As NATO prepares to commemorate its 75th anniversary next month with a Washington Summit alongside President Biden, Stoltenberg discussed the upcoming change in leadership and the challenges that lie ahead.

After serving for a decade, Stoltenberg is set to step down from his position, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte poised to assume the role later this year. Stoltenberg expressed confidence in Rutte, describing him as an "excellent person" to take on the task ahead. However, Rutte will have to navigate through mounting conflicts, including the intensifying war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the emergence of politicians who may question NATO's relevance both in Europe and the United States.

"The most important task for any Secretary General [of] NATO is to ensure that North America and Europe stand together and are ready to protect each other," Stoltenberg emphasized. He highlighted the urgency of this alliance in today's increasingly dangerous world, plagued by a full-scale war in Europe, a new war in the Middle East, and a global rivalry between major powers.

Speaking about the shifting world order, Stoltenberg drew attention to the growing alignment of authoritarian powers who oppose the rules-based international order. He cited the recent mutual defense pact signed by Russia and North Korea, as well as the collaboration between Russia, China, and Iran, which has been particularly evident in the war in Ukraine. Stoltenberg stressed the need for NATO allies to stand together and collaborate with partners in the Asia-Pacific, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, all of whom will be present at the upcoming NATO summit in Washington.

Addressing China's support for Russia in the Ukrainian conflict, Stoltenberg highlighted the potential consequences in terms of trade and economic relations. While the specific actions are yet to be decided, he emphasized that China, as the main supporter of Russia's aggression, cannot maintain normal trade relationships with European allies while fueling a conflict of such magnitude.

Turning to concerns about the rise of far-right movements in Europe and the United States, Stoltenberg reassured that NATO remains an alliance of 32 democracies on both sides of the Atlantic, encompassing various political parties. Acknowledging occasional questioning of NATO's relevance, he expressed confidence in the alliance's resilience, citing past instances where different parties have ultimately chosen to support NATO. Stoltenberg firmly believed that regardless of the outcome of future elections, there is strong support for NATO and Ukraine across Europe.

As Stoltenberg prepares to pass on the torch, his message resonates: unity is paramount in addressing the challenges faced by the international community. With tensions mounting and conflicts unfolding, the upcoming NATO summit serves as a crucial platform to reinforce the alliance's commitment to protecting each other and maintaining stability in an increasingly uncertain world.