Former European Council president Charles Michel has sharply criticised NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, saying he should stop acting as an "American agent" and work to unite NATO amid rising tensions with Washington.
Speaking to Euronews, Michel said he was losing confidence in Rutte's approach and that flattering diplomacy toward the United States would "not work" and could lead to "total failure".
He urged the NATO chief to focus on strengthening cohesion within the alliance rather than appearing overly deferential to the US.
The comments reflect broader unease among some European leaders about transatlantic relations, particularly following hostile rhetoric from Washington and disputes such as over Greenland.
Michel said he expected Rutte to defend NATO unity more forcefully and resist what he described as intimidation from the US.
Rutte, a former Dutch prime minister who became NATO secretary general in 2024, has drawn criticism and support alike for his handling of relations with the United States.
His defenders argue that strong ties with the US remain central to European security, especially given ongoing defence challenges and debates over Europe's capacity to defend itself independently.
