A one-year extension will be given to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, according to Der Spiegel magazine, which also reveals that his predominant successor is German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen.
According to the website of the German magazine, there is already an internal consultation in order for Mr. Stoltenberg's term to be extended until the anniversary Summit of the Alliance for the 70 years since its founding. However, the issue of his succession is already being discussed in NATO corridors, and according to Spiegel, the name of Mrs. Von der Layen is the one that is heard the most. The German minister (CDU) is considered pragmatic, effective and committed to transatlantic cooperation, and has good relations with the United States. Her possible election would also mark the upgrading of Germany's role in both NATO and Europe, and she would be the first woman in that position. Traditionally, the United States has taken over the military command of NATO and the Europeans the post of Secretary General.
Source: TheToc