Two major themes on the CSAT agenda: Klaus Iohannis’ candidacy for NATO leadership and the transfer of the Patriot missile system

President Klaus Iohannis has convened the Supreme Council for National Defense to discuss several important matters.

These include Romania’s objectives for the NATO Summit in 2024, contributions that the Romanian Armed Forces can make to foreign missions in 2025, and an analysis of the situation in Ukraine following Russia’s aggression. Also on the agenda is an evaluation of the possibility of transferring a Patriot surface-to-air missile system to Ukraine. This decision is critical as Ukraine seeks military support from the West, and with the NATO Summit in July approaching rapidly.

During the meeting, consideration will also be given to a report prepared by the Ministry of National Defense, which suggests that Romania should retain the Patriot systems on its own territory, given the risks involved in transferring them amidst the current conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, the President will inform the Council about his candidacy for NATO Secretary General, despite Mark Rutte having secured the support of the majority of alliance members.

“Slovakia is prepared to support Mark Rutte as the future NATO Secretary General,” Slovak President Peter Pellegrini stated on Tuesday, although Slovakia had previously expressed a preference for an Eastern European candidate to fill the position.

In this context, President Klaus Iohannis was asked on Wednesday during a joint press conference with Italian President Sergio Mattarella whether he maintained his candidacy.

“On NATO, more tomorrow. I will present these issues first in the CSAT, then to the public opinion. But I can assure you that tomorrow afternoon you will be fully informed and we can move forward. Consider this a non-answer and a postponement,” President Iohannis responded.

These discussions and decisions will significantly influence Romania’s foreign and security policy in the coming period.