It should be noted that Stoltenberg has held this position for almost nine years. The last time his term was extended in March of last year, until the end of September 2023.
At the same time, experts interviewed by the newspaper suggest that von der Leyen is likely to encounter resistance from eurosceptics. Thus, London can oppose his candidacy, which considers his work at the head of the German Ministry of Defense from 2013 to 2019 ineffective.
It was previously reported that Stoltenberg will retire this fall. The North Atlantic Alliance does not hold official elections for the Secretary General, the new leader is appointed by consensus of 30 member countries of the bloc.