Dutch premier announces his departure from politics

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) - Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has announced his departure from politics following the government’s fall last Friday over an immigration policy dispute, said local media on Monday.

“I decided that I will not remain the leader of the VVD (People’s Party for Democracy and Freedom) in the upcoming elections,” he said in a speech he delivered in the country’s parliament, according to Dutch public broadcaster NOS.

He reiterated, however, that he intends to stay on as prime minister until a new government is formed after elections expected this fall.

Rutte also denied claims he intends to be the head of NATO.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg recently confirmed he will extend his term for a year, but as of October 2024, there will need to be a successor.

On Friday, after days of talks between key members of the Cabinet led by Rutte, a deal could not be reached and the ruling coalition collapsed.

It ended the fourth term of Rutte's Cabinet, which was inaugurated in January 2022.