As the former Dutch PM takes over as secretary general of the alliance, analysts say he will have to use his political survival skills as an astute negotiator to persuade members to spend more on defence and keep supporting Ukraine.

A laid-back people person known for holding firm when things get tough, Dutchman Mark Rutte will need all those skills to lead NATO through one of its most challenging times.His public image is perhaps best summed up by his regular hairdresser,

Mark Rutte, the new NATO Secretary General, despite threats from Russian President Vladimir Putin, believes there is currently no direct threat of nuclear weapons being used. The statement was made during Tuesday's press conference at the Alliance's headquarters in Brussels.