Mark Rutte, the outgoing prime minister of the Netherlands, will succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of NATO, as agreed upon by all 32 nations of the alliance. Watch in for more details!

Former Dutch PM Mark Rutte set to replace Jens Stoltenberg as NATO Chief

Former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to be next NATO chief

Mark Rutte set to be NATO's next secretary-general

Mark Rutte, the outgoing prime minister of the Netherlands, will succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of NATO, as agreed upon by all 32 nations of the alliance.

Mark Rutte, the outgoing prime minister of the Netherlands, will succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of NATO, as agreed upon by all 32 nations of the alliance. Klaus Iohannis, the president of Romania, withdrew his candidacy for the NATO secretary general post on Thursday (June 20), reaffirming Romania's support for Rutte after receiving endorsements from Slovakia and Hungary on Tuesday. Iohannis said that he had informed NATO allies of his decision to withdraw his candidacy at a meeting of the Supreme Council of National Defence. Rutte's leadership has come when the world is marred with conflicts and major countries are holding their elections. He will assume the position on October 2. Also read: Putin's Pyongyang yawn: Social media buzzes over videos of 'bored' Putin at North Korean concert - See pics Now that Rutte has been confirmed, the succession question is resolved before July, when NATO leaders travel to Washington to commemorate the alliance's 75th anniversary. Rutte's road to becoming NATO chief hasn't been easy. Since late November, he has been campaigning for the position. Eastern European nations have questioned Rutte's pre-2014 support for Russia's Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, and he has been accused of not actively enlisting their support. Nevertheless, Rutte received the support of two-thirds of all NATO members when he announced his candidacy in March. Rutte was chosen after a lengthy process that saw Stoltenberg's term extended four times. The secretary general's tenure was extended by Allies in 2017 until the end of September 2020. They rescheduled that date to September 2022 in 2019. Another extension was issued in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. NATO partners decided to give Stoltenberg an additional year as secretary general in July of last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Mark Rutte to succeed Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general amid escalating global tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping met Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Rutte is on a two-day state visit to Beijing.

Dutch PM Rutte meets Xi Jinping, claims of cyber espionage

Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10 year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country.

Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte signed a 10 year security deal with Ukraine in Kharkiv on Friday (March 1), becoming the seventh Western leader to sign a security agreement with the war-torn country. Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, France, and Denmark have signed bilateral security deals with Ukraine over the past two months. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Prime Minister Rutte told reporters that his government would contribute to the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells. Also read | Explained: Ukraine discusses security deals with allies as war enters third year. What are they? In February, the Czech Republic said it had sourced 500,000 rounds of 155 mm shells and 300,000 122 mm rounds from other countries, which could be delivered to Ukraine in weeks if funding was secured. Rutte told reporters that the Netherlands would donate $162 million (150 million euros) to the Czech initiative, taking the total to $271 million. The security deal with Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that the Netherlands' security deal with Ukraine included $2.2 billion in military aid from Amsterdam this year as well as other defence assistance over the next 10 years. "Today, Mark Rutte and I signed a bilateral security agreement between Ukraine and the Netherlands," Zelensky said in a post on social media. A rare visit to Kharkiv Rutte's visit to Kharkiv was a rare one by a senior Western leader as the city is regularly attacked by Russian air strikes and is much closer to the Russian border than Kyiv, Reuters reported. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian town of Orikhiv turns into ruins × Rutte and Zelensky visited an underground classroom established to allow students to attend offline classes safe from missile strikes. The Dutch prime minister praised the courage and determination of the children and teachers as "a true beacon of hope that inspires Ukrainians to keep fighting and allies to keep supporting Ukraine." "The task facing Ukrainian allies is clear – do whatever you can to provide what is needed, [for] as long as it takes," he added. In a statement on Telegram, Zelensky said that over 20,000 buildings including schools, churches and residential complexes had been destroyed in Kharkiv in the last two years. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: In rare visit to Kharkiv, Netherlands PM signs security deal with Kyiv

The United States and the United Kingdom on Thursday (Feb 22) backed outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Currently, Rutte is the frontrunner to replace Jens Stoltenberg and the push by Washington and London has put him in a strong position to clinch the post.&nbsp;

The 57-year-old is currently serving as prime minister in a transitional capacity after far-right leader Geert Wilders scored a stunning Dutch general election win in November.&nbsp;

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's spokesman told reporters on Thursday that Britain "does strongly back Dutch PM Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as NATO Secretary General".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-uk-announces-new-sanctions-against-russia-to-mark-conflicts-anniversary-692835">UK announces new sanctions against Russia to mark conflict's anniversary</a>&nbsp;

Stoltenberg's decade-long tenure was extended twice in the face of Russia's war on Ukraine and a successor is expected to be announced before a July summit in Washington.&nbsp;

According to the spokesperson, the UK wanted a candidate who would "keep NATO strong and deliver on the Alliance's NATO 2030 vision".&nbsp;

The spokesperson said that Rutte was "well respected across the Alliance, has serious defence and security credentials, and will ensure that the alliance remains strong and ready to defend and deter".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-taken-over-village-of-pobieda-in-ukraines-donetsk-region-692733">Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as quoted by the news agency Reuters, a US official said: "President Biden strongly endorses PM Rutte's candidacy to be the next Secretary General of NATO. PM Rutte has a deep understanding of the importance of the Alliance is a natural leader and communicator, and his leadership would serve the Alliance well at this critical time."&nbsp;

NATO is a military alliance which was established to serve as a counterweight to Soviet armies stationed in central and eastern Europe after World War II.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iran &amp; Russia: Growing military ties&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-russia-growing-military-ties-692804/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rutte has emerged as the clear frontrunner. Other hopefuls who are trying to take over the NATO top job include Estonian premier Kaja Kallas and Latvia's foreign minister, Krisjanis Karins.&nbsp;

Some supporters want to wrap up Rutte's nomination soon to avoid the NATO job getting put in the mix with European Union top positions, which will be up for grabs after the European Parliament elections in June. Reports have also mentioned that Rutte has had good relationships with various British and US leaders, including Trump, during his long tenure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States and the United Kingdom on Thursday (Feb 22) backed outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

The United States and the United Kingdom on Thursday (Feb 22) backed outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the next secretary general of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Currently, Rutte is the frontrunner to replace Jens Stoltenberg and the push by Washington and London has put him in a strong position to clinch the post. The 57-year-old is currently serving as prime minister in a transitional capacity after far-right leader Geert Wilders scored a stunning Dutch general election win in November. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's spokesman told reporters on Thursday that Britain "does strongly back Dutch PM Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as NATO Secretary General". Also read: UK announces new sanctions against Russia to mark conflict's anniversary Stoltenberg's decade-long tenure was extended twice in the face of Russia's war on Ukraine and a successor is expected to be announced before a July summit in Washington. According to the spokesperson, the UK wanted a candidate who would "keep NATO strong and deliver on the Alliance's NATO 2030 vision". The spokesperson said that Rutte was "well respected across the Alliance, has serious defence and security credentials, and will ensure that the alliance remains strong and ready to defend and deter". Also read: Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region Meanwhile, as quoted by the news agency Reuters, a US official said: "President Biden strongly endorses PM Rutte's candidacy to be the next Secretary General of NATO. PM Rutte has a deep understanding of the importance of the Alliance is a natural leader and communicator, and his leadership would serve the Alliance well at this critical time." NATO is a military alliance which was established to serve as a counterweight to Soviet armies stationed in central and eastern Europe after World War II. Watch: Iran & Russia: Growing military ties × Rutte has emerged as the clear frontrunner. Other hopefuls who are trying to take over the NATO top job include Estonian premier Kaja Kallas and Latvia's foreign minister, Krisjanis Karins. Some supporters want to wrap up Rutte's nomination soon to avoid the NATO job getting put in the mix with European Union top positions, which will be up for grabs after the European Parliament elections in June. Reports have also mentioned that Rutte has had good relationships with various British and US leaders, including Trump, during his long tenure. (With inputs from agencies)

US, UK 'strongly' back Dutch PM Mark Rutte to be next NATO chief

In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7). 
 
As the photographers continuously clicked the photos of the two leaders, they were forced to awkwardly fumble in front of the doors after some staff accidentally locked them outside the headquarters of the politician. 
 
In the hilarious video of the incident, Sunak is seen walking out of residence at 10 Downing Street in London to welcome Rutte. Just as Sunak left, the massive black door of the house, which had been adorned with a festive wreath, swiftly closed behind his back, literally leaving the conservative leader out in the cold.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-will-work-rishi-sunak-pleads-conservatives-to-support-his-rwanda-asylum-plan-667281">'It will work': Rishi Sunak pleads conservatives to support his Rwanda asylum plan</a>

The politicians, unaware of the situation, posed for handshake shots and exchanged niceties on the doorstep before they turned to go inside and hold discussions, only to find the door locked.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
as well as everything else Rishi Sunak can’t open his own front door <a href="https://t.co/z9lC5K5Wwm">pic.twitter.com/z9lC5K5Wwm</a>
— dave ❄️ 🥕 🧻 (@mrdavemacleod) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrdavemacleod/status/1733261027473514653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Sunak pushes the door, but fails to open it</h2>

The two leaders uncomfortably continued chatting while facing the building and waiting for the custodian to open the door. Minutes later, 43-year-old Sunak was forced to push against the door but to no avail. 
 
Then, the two leaders swapped places on the doorstep and tried looking into two lower-level windows in the hope of catching the attention of someone present inside, as the media continued snapping them. 
 
Finally, the door was opened and the men got inside the house. Before getting inside, 56-year-old Rutte had a giant smile on his face and waved to the crowd of reporters before following Sunak.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Hardliners turn turn the screws on Rishi Sunak; Deep slits in Conservative Party?&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-hardliners-turn-turn-the-screws-on-rishi-sunak-deep-slits-in-conservative-party-wion-667547/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the meeting, the Dutch prime minister wrote on X, “Naturally we also talked about the alarming situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.” 
 
The awkward encounter came just hours after it was proclaimed by Sunak that he would “do what is necessary” to revive a blocked deal so that asylum-seekers could be sent to Rwanda.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7).

In a supremely awkward moment rarely witnessed in the world of global politics, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got locked out of 10 Downing Street along with his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte on Thursday (Dec 7). As the photographers continuously clicked the photos of the two leaders, they were forced to awkwardly fumble in front of the doors after some staff accidentally locked them outside the headquarters of the politician. In the hilarious video of the incident, Sunak is seen walking out of residence at 10 Downing Street in London to welcome Rutte. Just as Sunak left, the massive black door of the house, which had been adorned with a festive wreath, swiftly closed behind his back, literally leaving the conservative leader out in the cold. Also read: 'It will work': Rishi Sunak pleads conservatives to support his Rwanda asylum plan The politicians, unaware of the situation, posed for handshake shots and exchanged niceties on the doorstep before they turned to go inside and hold discussions, only to find the door locked. as well as everything else Rishi Sunak can’t open his own front door pic.twitter.com/z9lC5K5Wwm — dave ❄️ 🥕 🧻 (@mrdavemacleod) December 8, 2023 × Sunak pushes the door, but fails to open it The two leaders uncomfortably continued chatting while facing the building and waiting for the custodian to open the door. Minutes later, 43-year-old Sunak was forced to push against the door but to no avail. Then, the two leaders swapped places on the doorstep and tried looking into two lower-level windows in the hope of catching the attention of someone present inside, as the media continued snapping them. Finally, the door was opened and the men got inside the house. Before getting inside, 56-year-old Rutte had a giant smile on his face and waved to the crowd of reporters before following Sunak. Watch: UK: Hardliners turn turn the screws on Rishi Sunak; Deep slits in Conservative Party? After the meeting, the Dutch prime minister wrote on X, “Naturally we also talked about the alarming situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.” The awkward encounter came just hours after it was proclaimed by Sunak that he would “do what is necessary” to revive a blocked deal so that asylum-seekers could be sent to Rwanda. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Sunak gets locked out of 10 Downing Street with Dutch PM in chilly weather

The Netherlands is voting to elect a new Parliament the polls will also bring the Netherlands its first new prime minister in over a decade this after the outgoing prime minister Mark Rutt lost the popularity vote and in July he promised not to stand for elections again.

The Netherlands to get first new prime minister in 13 years

After his coalition government disintegrated on Friday due to a disagreement over asylum policies, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced he would leave politics. One of Europe's longest-serving presidents, Rutte has been in office for almost 13 years.

Dutch PM Mark Rutte to leave politics after ruling coalition fails to agree on migration policy

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Monday that he will not participate in the upcoming general elections, effectively ending his 17-year-long political career.

The decision of Rutte, the longest-serving prime minister of the Netherlands, follows the collapse of his government last week.

“On Sunday I decided that I will not be available as a leader for the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy VVD in the upcoming elections,” Rutte&nbsp;told&nbsp;the Dutch parliament Monday.

Despite having “energy and ideas” to continue, the 56-year-old Dutch leader said that it was a “personal decision, regardless of the developments in recent weeks”.

&nbsp;“I do this with mixed feelings, with emotions…I love the team dearly. But it feels right,” he said.

On Friday, the four-party ruling coalition quit after failing to secure a package of measures to rein in migration.

Rutte said that the decision of the four parties to resign was unanimous and was prompted by “irreconcilable differences”.

<h2>Longest-serving PM</h2>

For the last 17 years, Rutte was the leader of the VVD, and for 13 years he has been serving as the prime minister.

So far, no replacement of Rutte as the leader of VVD has been announced. The party’s parliamentary faction is being led by Sophie Hermans, Rutte’s former political assistant.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com//videos/dutch-government-collapses-as-europe-shifts-to-conservative-migration-stance-613605/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is unclear when the impending elections will take place, but local media reports suggested that it can either be in October or November.

Until then, Rutte said that he will continue as a caretaker prime minister.

<h2>To continue&nbsp;as caretaker PM</h2>

Rutte said that his job till then would be to smoothen the functioning of the government during his limited time as the outgoing administration cannot make new legislations and policies. &nbsp;

“But there are always urgent issues that require decisions now,” Rutte said, referring to the Ukraine war, supporting victims of earthquakes in Groningen city and a government childcare benefits scandal.

When asked what he will be doing post the retirement from active politics, the outgoing prime minister, who is currently teaching social studies once a week at a local school in The Hague, responded, “Maybe I will do that for a few days."

In his 13-year-long reign as the PM, Rutte has steered his party through various crises. His ability to negate political crises — including a scandal over childcare subsidies which caused him to briefly&nbsp;resign&nbsp;in January 2021 only to&nbsp;return to power&nbsp;two months later after his VVD party finished first in the national elections, has won him the nickname “Teflon Mark”.

On Friday, his coalition government could not agree to a unanimous asylum policy due to which they resigned.

Rutte’s VVD party wanted to limit family reunions for asylum seekers fleeing from war zones but ran into opposition from the ChristenUnie, the smallest member of the four-party coalition, which said it was unwilling to break up families.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Monday that he will not participate in the upcoming general elections, effectively ending his 17-year-long political career.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Monday that he will not participate in the upcoming general elections, effectively ending his 17-year-long political career. The decision of Rutte, the longest-serving prime minister of the Netherlands, follows the collapse of his government last week. “On Sunday I decided that I will not be available as a leader for the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy VVD in the upcoming elections,” Rutte told the Dutch parliament Monday. Despite having “energy and ideas” to continue, the 56-year-old Dutch leader said that it was a “personal decision, regardless of the developments in recent weeks”. “I do this with mixed feelings, with emotions…I love the team dearly. But it feels right,” he said. On Friday, the four-party ruling coalition quit after failing to secure a package of measures to rein in migration. Rutte said that the decision of the four parties to resign was unanimous and was prompted by “irreconcilable differences”. Longest-serving PM For the last 17 years, Rutte was the leader of the VVD, and for 13 years he has been serving as the prime minister. So far, no replacement of Rutte as the leader of VVD has been announced. The party’s parliamentary faction is being led by Sophie Hermans, Rutte’s former political assistant. It is unclear when the impending elections will take place, but local media reports suggested that it can either be in October or November. Until then, Rutte said that he will continue as a caretaker prime minister. To continue as caretaker PM Rutte said that his job till then would be to smoothen the functioning of the government during his limited time as the outgoing administration cannot make new legislations and policies. “But there are always urgent issues that require decisions now,” Rutte said, referring to the Ukraine war, supporting victims of earthquakes in Groningen city and a government childcare benefits scandal. When asked what he will be doing post the retirement from active politics, the outgoing prime minister, who is currently teaching social studies once a week at a local school in The Hague, responded, “Maybe I will do that for a few days." In his 13-year-long reign as the PM, Rutte has steered his party through various crises. His ability to negate political crises — including a scandal over childcare subsidies which caused him to briefly resign in January 2021 only to return to power two months later after his VVD party finished first in the national elections, has won him the nickname “Teflon Mark”. On Friday, his coalition government could not agree to a unanimous asylum policy due to which they resigned. Rutte’s VVD party wanted to limit family reunions for asylum seekers fleeing from war zones but ran into opposition from the ChristenUnie, the smallest member of the four-party coalition, which said it was unwilling to break up families. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mark Rutte, longest serving PM of Netherlands, calls it quits after govt collapse

Having previously criticised Russia for using cluster munitions, US President Joe Biden on Friday defended the decision to provide the same weapons to Ukraine. In other news, the Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Friday night resigned from his position after failing to reach a consensus with his coalition partners on the 'migration policy'.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-defends-decision-to-provide-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-says-they-are-running-out-of-ammunition-613291">Biden defends decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, says 'they are running out of ammunition'</a>

United States President Joe Biden defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a "very difficult decision". The bomb has a record of taking the lives of civilians.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/08/365359-untitled-design-2023-07-08t081736632.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/longest-serving-dutch-pm-mark-rutte-resigns-over-differences-about-migration-policy-with-coalition-parties-613288">Longest-serving Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns over differences about migration policy with coalition parties</a>

Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte resigned late on Friday after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/17/178789-dutch-pm.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-final-decision-on-membership-of-ukraine-to-be-taken-in-nato-summit-us-613309">No final decision on membership of Ukraine to be taken in NATO Summit: US</a>

The White House on Friday announced that the proposed NATO membership of Ukraine will be discussed in the summit of the alliance scheduled next week in Vilnius, however, no decision will be taken in this regard.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/08/365372-untitled-design-2023-07-08t091232312.png?imwidth=1920" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-free-of-chemical-weapons-as-us-destroys-last-stockpiles-613279">World 'free' of chemical weapons as US destroys last stockpiles</a>

US President Joe Biden made an announcement on Friday, stating that the US has successfully destroyed its long-standing stockpiles of chemical weapons, fulfilling its commitment under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/08/365354-us-president-joe-biden-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foldable-phones-the-future-of-smartphones-613304">Foldable phones: The future of smartphones?</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foldable-phones-the-future-of-smartphones-613304/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Having previously criticised Russia for using cluster munitions, US President Joe Biden on Friday defended the decision to provide the same weapons to Ukraine. In other news, the Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Friday night resigned from his position after failing to reach a consensus with his coalition partners on the 'migration policy'.

Having previously criticised Russia for using cluster munitions, US President Joe Biden on Friday defended the decision to provide the same weapons to Ukraine. In other news, the Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Friday night resigned from his position after failing to reach a consensus with his coalition partners on the 'migration policy'. Click on headlines to read more: Biden defends decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, says 'they are running out of ammunition' United States President Joe Biden defended his decision to provide cluster bombs to Ukraine, calling it a "very difficult decision". The bomb has a record of taking the lives of civilians. Longest-serving Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns over differences about migration policy with coalition parties Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte resigned late on Friday after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. No final decision on membership of Ukraine to be taken in NATO Summit: US The White House on Friday announced that the proposed NATO membership of Ukraine will be discussed in the summit of the alliance scheduled next week in Vilnius, however, no decision will be taken in this regard. World 'free' of chemical weapons as US destroys last stockpiles US President Joe Biden made an announcement on Friday, stating that the US has successfully destroyed its long-standing stockpiles of chemical weapons, fulfilling its commitment under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention. WATCH | Foldable phones: The future of smartphones? ×

Morning brief: Biden defends cluster bombs, Dutch PM resigns, and more

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal.

They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres.

"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down.

"This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government."

The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ditch-baggage-rent-clothes-what-is-the-new-trend-sparked-by-japan-airlines-613225">Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines?</a>

The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues.

Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first.

The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said.

Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-prigozhin-never-went-to-belarus-used-body-double-to-appear-as-if-he-fled-us-official-613222">Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official</a>

The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV".

ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan.

He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month.

Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-unstoppable-chhetri-613238/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open.

"The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment".

Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable".

Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country".

The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years.

The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year.

Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party&nbsp;wins the most seats in the general election.

Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo.

And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders.

After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague.

"I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP.

"I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition government collapsed Friday over "insurmountable" differences among the alliance partners on how to tackle migration, with elections expected in November. Rutte, 56, the Netherlands' longest-serving leader and one of Europe's most experienced politicians, said days of crisis talks between the four parties failed to produce a deal. They fell out over Rutte's plans to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers, a bid to curb numbers following a scandal last year over overcrowded migration centres. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy," Rutte, the leader of the centre-right VVD party, told a press conference after talks broke down. "This evening, we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. For this reason, I will shortly present my written resignation to the king in the name of the whole government." The government later confirmed he had presented his resignation and would visit King Willem-Alexander on Saturday. Also Read | Ditch baggage, rent clothes: What is the new trend sparked by Japan Airlines? The coalition was Rutte's fourth since he took office in 2010. This time, he had assumed office in January 2022 after a record 271 days of negotiations and was deeply divided on many issues. Rutte -- dubbed "Teflon Mark" after the non-stick pan coating for his ability to avoid political catastrophe -- added that he had the "energy" to stand for a fifth term but that he had to "reflect" first. The earliest that elections can be held is in mid-November, the Dutch election commission said. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. Also Read | Wagner boss Prigozhin never went to Belarus, used body double to appear as if he fled Russia: US official The sudden collapse sparked bitter recriminations between the four parties in the year-and-a-half-old coalition, which had been dubbed "Rutte IV". ChristenUnie -- a Christian Democratic party that draws its main support from the staunchly Protestant "Bible Belt" in the central Netherlands -- and centre-left D66 had opposed Rutte's plan. He reportedly demanded that the number of relatives of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands be capped at 200 per month. Watch | The unstoppable Chhetri × Rutte had promised to tackle migration after last summer's migration centres scandal, during which a baby died and hundreds of people were forced to sleep in the open. "The family, that children grow up with their parents, is a core value for us," said deputy prime minister Carola Schouten of ChristenUnie, adding it was "a very difficult moment". Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of D66 said there was "unnecessary tension in the process" and that the collapse was "regrettable". Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra of the centre-right Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA) said the fall of the government was "very disappointing, unnecessary and inexplicable to the people of the country". The Netherlands now faces one of its most stormy and divisive election campaigns in years. The upstart BBB party, led by farmers who oppose the government's European Union-backed environmental rules, will be seeking to repeat the success of senate elections that it won earlier this year. Its leader Caroline van der Plas has refused to serve in a coalition with Rutte, and she didn't rule out standing for the prime minister's job if her party wins the most seats in the general election. Local media said Rutte had taken a tough stance on migration to deflect a challenge from the right wing of the VVD, whose voters the farmer party has begun to woo. And Rutte has long been under pressure on the issue of migration due to the strength of far-right parties in the Netherlands, including that of anti-Islam leader Geert Wilders. After the collapse of the government, a crowd of onlookers gathered outside the government buildings where the talks had taken place in the historic centre of The Hague. "I'm quite concerned. I'm worried what the next cabinet is going to look like," 19-year-old IT worker Marijn Philippo told AFP. "I hope that the next cabinet will do better than this one, especially in terms of asylum," added Pieter Balkenende, 32. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns as coalition talks over policy to check migration fail

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has announced his resignation and that of his Cabinet, citing irreconcilable differences within his four-party coalition about how to rein in migration.

Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns after ruling coalition fails to agree on migration policy

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his&nbsp;resignation,&nbsp;late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem&nbsp;as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year.&nbsp;

During the&nbsp;Dutch PM's&nbsp;meeting with the King, he is expected to&nbsp;discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since&nbsp;King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask&nbsp;Rutte's coalition to continue as a&nbsp;caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections.&nbsp;

"This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague.&nbsp;

"It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added.&nbsp;

Rutte is the leader of&nbsp;the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022.&nbsp;

<h2>Why did Rutte resign?</h2>

Notably, Rutte's VVD and&nbsp;&nbsp;Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the&nbsp;centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision.&nbsp;

Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures.

However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-ambassador-lectures-india-over-manipur-613260">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-ambassador-lectures-india-over-manipur-613260/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>What next?</h2>

The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back.&nbsp;Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine.

The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections.&nbsp;Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to&nbsp;Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-king-offers-apology-for-slavery-during-colonial-era-610902">Also read |&nbsp;Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era</a>

After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent&nbsp;of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than&nbsp;17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is due to meet King Willem-Alexander on Saturday (July 8) following his resignation, late Friday, after 13 years in power as his coalition government failed to reach a consensus on migration policy. Citing 'irreconciable' differences on how to tackle the immigration problem as the reason, Rutte's shock resignation has set the stage for fresh elections later this year. During the Dutch PM's meeting with the King, he is expected to discuss a caretaker administration following the collapse of the centre-right government. However, since King Willem-Alexander is the head of the state, he might ask Rutte's coalition to continue as a caretaker government until a new administration is formed after the elections. "This evening we have unfortunately reached the conclusion that the differences are insurmountable. That is why I will immediately...offer the resignation of the entire cabinet to the king in writing," Rutte told reporters in The Hague. "It is no secret that the coalition partners have very different views on migration policy. And today, unfortunately, we have to draw the conclusion that those differences are irreconcilable," he added. Rutte is the leader of the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) and has been the Dutch prime minister since 2010. However, his current tenure came to a grinding halt, just one and a half years after coming to power in January 2022. Why did Rutte resign? Notably, Rutte's VVD and Christian Democrat Appeal party (CDA) are all in for stricter measures on migration, but the centre-left Democrats 66 (D66) and Christian Union (ChristenUnie) do not share the same vision. Rutte wanted to tighten curbs on reuniting families of asylum seekers after a scandal last year about overcrowded asylum seekers. The conservative leader wanted to cap the number of war refugees allowed into the Netherlands to 200 per month. He threatened to walk away and topple the government if the four-party coalition did not pass his measures. However, D66 and ChristenUnie remained staunchly opposed to the measures. To reach a breakthrough and save the shaky government, talks were held on Wednesday and Thursday but to no fruition. WATCH | Gravitas: US Ambassador lectures India over Manipur × What next? The scheduled elections were due to take place in 2025 but the developments on Friday mean the timeline could be pushed back. Rutte said he would lead a caretaker government until then that would focus on tasks including support for Ukraine. The opposition leaders, however, have called for 'quick, snap' elections. Geert Wilders, leader of the anti-immigration Party for Freedom (PVV), took to Twitter and batted against Rutte leading the caretaker government. Also read | Dutch king offers apology for slavery during colonial era After the election results were announced in 2021, it took almost nine months for the parties to find a functioning coalition. Rutte's VVD emerged as the largest party but won less than 22 per cent of the vote. Only two other parties had support above 10 per cent, while no fewer than 17 groups won at least one seat in the House of Representatives. Thus, it looks highly unlikely that another coalition can come in and fill the void left by the collapse of the Rutte-led four-party arrangement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Longest-serving Dutch PM Mark Rutte resigns after talks on migration fail, to update king on govt collapse

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch&nbsp;in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity".

"Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-pm-rutte-issues-official-apology-for-netherlands-role-in-slavery-544587">Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery</a>

"But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added.&nbsp;

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean.&nbsp;

WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-takes-stance-on-china-export-dutch-minister-says-will-not-adopt-us-approach-535564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives.

King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events.

However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey".

The apology, issued by the Dutch government for the Netherlands' contribution to 250 years of slavery, was welcomed by Dutch King Willem-Alexander in his Christmas address on Sunday, calling it the "start of a long journey". An official apology was given by Prime Minister Mark Rutte for the involvement of the Dutch in slavery practised in its former colonies, as he called it a "crime against humanity". "Nobody today bears responsibility for the inhumane acts that were inflicted on the lives of men, women and children," said Willem-Alexander, while speaking at the palace of Huis ten Bosch in The Hague. ALSO READ| Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery "But by honestly facing our shared past and recognising the crime against humanity that is slavery, we lay the ground for a shared future - a future in which we stand against all modern forms of discrimination, exploitation and injustice. The apology offered by the government is the start of a long journey,” he added. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the “Golden Age” of the Netherlands empire was funded by bringing 600,000 Africans under the slave trade, most of them belonging to South America and the Caribbean. WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach' The Dutch government has stated that it will be holding various commemorative events next year and a fund worth €200 million ($212 million) has been announced for social initiatives. King Willem-Alexander said that the issue will remain in the attention of the royal family in the commemorative year and they will also be “involved” in the events. However, the apology issued by PM Rutte was not satisfactory for some organisations that demanded that the apology be issued on July 1, 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch king welcomes government's slavery apology, says 'start of a long journey'

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte issued an official apology on Monday for Netherlands' historical involvement in slavery for 250 years, as he said that it was a crime committed against humanity and acknowledged the continued consequences of slavery in the present day.

In his nationally broadcasted speech, Rutte said, “Today I apologise. For centuries the Dutch state and its representatives have enabled and stimulated slavery and have profited from it.”

"It is true that nobody alive today bears any personal guilt for slavery...(however) the Dutch state bears responsibility for the immense suffering that has been done to those that were enslaved and their descendants,” he added.

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foreign-ministry-of-the-netherlands-issues-apology-for-institutional-racism-542459">Foreign ministry of the Netherlands issues apology for 'institutional racism'</a>

Rutte made the official apology amid growing reconsideration of the Netherlands’ colonial past, which includes steps taken to return the looted wealth and the current struggle of the country with racism.

The prime minister’s apology in The Hague faced resistance from groups who argued that King Willem-Alexander should have issued an apology on July 1, 2023, in former colony Suriname to mark Dutch abolition’s 160th anniversary. Dutch Afro-Surinamese organisation Honour and Recovery Foundation’s Roy Kaikusi Groenberg said, "It takes two to tango - apologies have to be received.”

He added that it was wrong to not sufficiently consult activists who have worked for years to change the wave of discussion in the country. "The way the government is handling this, it's coming across as a neo-colonial belch," Groenberg said.

PM Rutte accepted that the announcement was clumsily handled and added that representatives are being sent by the Dutch government to Suriname along with the Caribbean islands that are part of the Netherlands with different degrees of autonomy - Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Curacao, Saba, Aruba and Bonaire.

WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-takes-stance-on-china-export-dutch-minister-says-will-not-adopt-us-approach-535564/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sint Maarten’s Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs said that no apology would be accepted by them without any discussion. Rutte issued the apology in his response to a national advisory panel which was established after the 2020 killing of George Floyd in the US.

The panel stated that the participation of the Dutch in slavery led to crimes against humanity and gave a recommendation for an apology as well as reparations in 2021. Rutte said that the panel’s conclusions are embraced by the government, including that slavery was a crime against humanity.

(With inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte issued an official apology on Monday for Netherlands' historical involvement in slavery for 250 years, as he said that it was a crime committed against humanity and acknowledged the continued consequences of slavery in the present day.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte issued an official apology on Monday for Netherlands' historical involvement in slavery for 250 years, as he said that it was a crime committed against humanity and acknowledged the continued consequences of slavery in the present day. In his nationally broadcasted speech, Rutte said, “Today I apologise. For centuries the Dutch state and its representatives have enabled and stimulated slavery and have profited from it.” "It is true that nobody alive today bears any personal guilt for slavery...(however) the Dutch state bears responsibility for the immense suffering that has been done to those that were enslaved and their descendants,” he added. ALSO READ| Foreign ministry of the Netherlands issues apology for 'institutional racism' Rutte made the official apology amid growing reconsideration of the Netherlands’ colonial past, which includes steps taken to return the looted wealth and the current struggle of the country with racism. The prime minister’s apology in The Hague faced resistance from groups who argued that King Willem-Alexander should have issued an apology on July 1, 2023, in former colony Suriname to mark Dutch abolition’s 160th anniversary. Dutch Afro-Surinamese organisation Honour and Recovery Foundation’s Roy Kaikusi Groenberg said, "It takes two to tango - apologies have to be received.” He added that it was wrong to not sufficiently consult activists who have worked for years to change the wave of discussion in the country. "The way the government is handling this, it's coming across as a neo-colonial belch," Groenberg said. PM Rutte accepted that the announcement was clumsily handled and added that representatives are being sent by the Dutch government to Suriname along with the Caribbean islands that are part of the Netherlands with different degrees of autonomy - Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Curacao, Saba, Aruba and Bonaire. WATCH| Netherlands takes stance on China export; Dutch Minister says 'Will not adopt US approach' Sint Maarten’s Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs said that no apology would be accepted by them without any discussion. Rutte issued the apology in his response to a national advisory panel which was established after the 2020 killing of George Floyd in the US. The panel stated that the participation of the Dutch in slavery led to crimes against humanity and gave a recommendation for an apology as well as reparations in 2021. Rutte said that the panel’s conclusions are embraced by the government, including that slavery was a crime against humanity. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch PM Rutte issues official apology for Netherlands’ role in slavery

In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery. This formal apology is set to be issued on December 19 and the government hopes it will redress how the Netherlands exploited more than 600,000 people who worked as slaves in its former colonies.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mark Rutte at an interaction with the media at the Hague last week said that a “significant moment” on this issue will take place on December 19 this year.

This decision and the timing of the soon-to-be-made announcement by the Dutch government has, however, come under scrutiny, and groups from former Dutch colonies like Suriname in South America have criticised it, calling it whimsical and that they were not consulted about the date. They also feel that the decision was made in a haphazard and hurried manner. Instead, they feel that the apology should have been issued on July 1, 2023, a day that is significant because it marks the 150th anniversary of the Netherlands abolishing slavery in its former colonies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-slavery-apology-plans-draw-flak-from-former-colonies-541421">Dutch slavery apology plans draw flak from former colonies</a>

Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee told reporters last week that Prime Minister Rutte probably wanted to issue the apology on December 19 because of the “changing political situation” in the Netherlands, with far-right Dutch political parties against the apology.

Local media reports say that the government also plans to spend 200 million euros on a fund promoting awareness about the colonial power's role in slavery and 27 million euros to open a slavery museum. Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind confirmed a report by broadcaster RTL that the government planned to make a formal apology in December.

The decision follows the recommendation last year by an advisory panel that the government acknowledges that the slave trade amounted to crimes against humanity, and it could be set right by a formal apology. Weerwind told the newsagency ANP that the apology will "open the page to a shared future."

Watch |&nbsp;Netherlands PM Mark Rutte speaks up on EU-Qatar corruption scandal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-pm-mark-rutte-speaks-up-on-eu-qatar-corruption-scandal-543315/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Going back to the past, the &nbsp;Dutch have a long association with slavery that first began in the 17th century when other former European colonial powers like Spain and Portugal were already involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Through the Dutch West India Company (WIC), the Dutch Empire began colonising large parts of land in South America and the Caribbean and bought slaves from Africa to work on the sugar, cotton, and coffee plantations of these lands.

A study by Leiden University pegs the time period as being “between 1612 and 1872, the Dutch operated from some 10 fortresses along the Gold Coast (now Ghana), from which slaves were shipped across the Atlantic”.

It also details how the Dutch role in the transatlantic slave trade involved exploiting about 550,000-600,000 Africans. Suriname and Guyana also became prominent markets from where the Dutch bought slaves.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicaragua-cuts-diplomatic-ties-with-netherlands-calls-them-interventionist-521610">Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Netherlands, calls them ‘interventionist’</a>

In 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery, becoming one of the last countries to do so. But in places like Suriname, Dutch slavery ended only in 1873 since the law ruled that a 10-year transition period was mandatory, according to Leiden University.

However, discussions about issuing an apology for Dutch slavery gained momentum after the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement in the United States, according to Dutch-Moroccan politician Salima Belhaj, from the Democrats 66 (D66) political party in the Netherlands.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery.

In what is being seen as an effort to come to terms with its colonial past, the Dutch government has decided to issue an apology next week for the role they played in 250 years of slavery. This formal apology is set to be issued on December 19 and the government hopes it will redress how the Netherlands exploited more than 600,000 people who worked as slaves in its former colonies. Prime Minister Mark Rutte at an interaction with the media at the Hague last week said that a “significant moment” on this issue will take place on December 19 this year. This decision and the timing of the soon-to-be-made announcement by the Dutch government has, however, come under scrutiny, and groups from former Dutch colonies like Suriname in South America have criticised it, calling it whimsical and that they were not consulted about the date. They also feel that the decision was made in a haphazard and hurried manner. Instead, they feel that the apology should have been issued on July 1, 2023, a day that is significant because it marks the 150th anniversary of the Netherlands abolishing slavery in its former colonies. Also read | Dutch slavery apology plans draw flak from former colonies Johan Roozer, chairman of the Surinamese National Commemoration of Slavery Remembrance Committee told reporters last week that Prime Minister Rutte probably wanted to issue the apology on December 19 because of the “changing political situation” in the Netherlands, with far-right Dutch political parties against the apology. Local media reports say that the government also plans to spend 200 million euros on a fund promoting awareness about the colonial power's role in slavery and 27 million euros to open a slavery museum. Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind confirmed a report by broadcaster RTL that the government planned to make a formal apology in December. The decision follows the recommendation last year by an advisory panel that the government acknowledges that the slave trade amounted to crimes against humanity, and it could be set right by a formal apology. Weerwind told the newsagency ANP that the apology will "open the page to a shared future." Watch | Netherlands PM Mark Rutte speaks up on EU-Qatar corruption scandal Going back to the past, the Dutch have a long association with slavery that first began in the 17th century when other former European colonial powers like Spain and Portugal were already involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Through the Dutch West India Company (WIC), the Dutch Empire began colonising large parts of land in South America and the Caribbean and bought slaves from Africa to work on the sugar, cotton, and coffee plantations of these lands. A study by Leiden University pegs the time period as being “between 1612 and 1872, the Dutch operated from some 10 fortresses along the Gold Coast (now Ghana), from which slaves were shipped across the Atlantic”. It also details how the Dutch role in the transatlantic slave trade involved exploiting about 550,000-600,000 Africans. Suriname and Guyana also became prominent markets from where the Dutch bought slaves. Also read | Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Netherlands, calls them ‘interventionist’ In 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery, becoming one of the last countries to do so. But in places like Suriname, Dutch slavery ended only in 1873 since the law ruled that a 10-year transition period was mandatory, according to Leiden University. However, discussions about issuing an apology for Dutch slavery gained momentum after the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement in the United States, according to Dutch-Moroccan politician Salima Belhaj, from the Democrats 66 (D66) political party in the Netherlands. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE:

Dutch government to issue formal apology for role in colonial-era slavery

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a virtual summit with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte today (Friday). During the summit the two leaders will discuss issues of bilateral cooperation and will look at new ways of strengthening the relationship.

Indian PM Modi to hold virtual summit with his Dutch counterpart Rutte

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19.

Interior Minister Kajsa Ollongren, tasked with mapping out possibilities to form a coalition government following last week's national election, was photographed carrying documents as she walked to her car on Thursday morning.

Close-ups of the photo revealed information about the negotiation stance of various parties and on the possible future of Pieter Omtzigt, one of the most prominent parliament members of the Christian Democrats (CDA).

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-in-netherlands-over-coronavirus-restrictions-370482">Clashes erupt in Netherlands over coronavirus restrictions</a>

This sparked outrage among party leaders, who quickly tried to debunk the information as premature conclusions.

"Bizarre, this peek in the notes of Ollongren. Subjects which have not been discussed with me and are none of their business," Wopke Hoekstra, Finance minister and CDA leader, tweeted shortly after the photo was published.

Ollongren, a representative of the pro-European Union D66 party, and her fellow coalition explorer from Prime Minister Mark Rutte's party handed in their resignation a few hours after the photo appeared online.

It was not immediately clear when and how the government formation talks could resume.

Ollongren had left parliament in a hurry, after being notified of her positive coronavirus test.

She had held talks with the leaders of all parties in the Dutch parliament in the days before her test, including Rutte and the leader of her own party, Sigrid Kaag.

According to Dutch health regulations, Rutte and the other party leaders will have to take a COVID-19 test five days after their meeting with Ollongren to see whether they were infected.

Rutte tested negative for the coronavirus on Wednesday, his office said on Thursday, following an infection of one of his cabinet members late last week.

Rutte's conservative VVD party remains the largest in the Dutch parliament following the March 15-17 election, while D66 placed second.

Both parties are widely expected to form a new government together with up to three junior partners, in a process that could take months.

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19.

Talks on forming a new Dutch government were put on hold on Thursday when one of the chief negotiators unwittingly revealed a sensitive document to a news photographer while rushing out of parliament after learning she had tested positive for COVID-19. Interior Minister Kajsa Ollongren, tasked with mapping out possibilities to form a coalition government following last week's national election, was photographed carrying documents as she walked to her car on Thursday morning. Close-ups of the photo revealed information about the negotiation stance of various parties and on the possible future of Pieter Omtzigt, one of the most prominent parliament members of the Christian Democrats (CDA). Also read | Clashes erupt in Netherlands over coronavirus restrictions This sparked outrage among party leaders, who quickly tried to debunk the information as premature conclusions. "Bizarre, this peek in the notes of Ollongren. Subjects which have not been discussed with me and are none of their business," Wopke Hoekstra, Finance minister and CDA leader, tweeted shortly after the photo was published. Ollongren, a representative of the pro-European Union D66 party, and her fellow coalition explorer from Prime Minister Mark Rutte's party handed in their resignation a few hours after the photo appeared online. It was not immediately clear when and how the government formation talks could resume. Ollongren had left parliament in a hurry, after being notified of her positive coronavirus test. She had held talks with the leaders of all parties in the Dutch parliament in the days before her test, including Rutte and the leader of her own party, Sigrid Kaag. According to Dutch health regulations, Rutte and the other party leaders will have to take a COVID-19 test five days after their meeting with Ollongren to see whether they were infected. Rutte tested negative for the coronavirus on Wednesday, his office said on Thursday, following an infection of one of his cabinet members late last week. Rutte's conservative VVD party remains the largest in the Dutch parliament following the March 15-17 election, while D66 placed second. Both parties are widely expected to form a new government together with up to three junior partners, in a process that could take months.

Dutch government formation talks on ice as document leaks

Netherlands voters headed to the voting stations on the third and final day of the national election amid the pandemic. With the final votes cast the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is expected to stay on at the office.

Netherlands Election: Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte set to win big

Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders, and his Cabinet resigned Friday over a report highlighting systemic failure by his government to protect thousands of families from overzealous tax inspectors.

Rutte and his Cabinet will continue running the government in a caretaker capacity, with general elections already scheduled for March. His center-right party is currently leading in the polls. The other parties in his coalition, who have also been touched by the scandal, are not expected to call for earlier elections because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Mistakes have been made on all levels that have led to great injustice for thousands of families. Innocent people have been criminalized, and their lives destroyed,” Rutte said in a news conference. “This Cabinet has taken full responsibility.” Rutte said the report that led to the downfall of the Cabinet was “hard as nails” but “fair.”

Rutte handed in his resignation and that of his entire Cabinet after riding his bicycle to see King Willem-Alexander van Oranje. He had been serving his third term as prime minister and had been leading the Netherlands since 2010. If his party gets the largest share of votes in the upcoming elections, he can serve a fourth term.

The report, the result of an inquiry in which Rutte was also questioned, concluded that “unprecedented injustice” had been done to innocent families, some of whom were forced to immediately repay huge amounts in child care benefits.

In many cases an administrative mistake like a missing signature was enough for the tax authority to label parents as frauds and fine families as much as tens of thousands of euros, the report said.

“Fundamental principles of the rule of law were violated,” it concluded, blasting both the government and Parliament for creating “rock-hard laws” with little room to fairly consider individual cases.

The chairman of the parliamentary committee that led the inquiry, Chris van Dam, said the system that was created to track down benefits fraud was “a mass process with no room for nuance.”

In a separate investigation, the Dutch Data Protection Authority concluded that tax inspectors had discriminated against citizens with dual nationality.

The former vice president of the Dutch Council of State, Herman Tjeenk Willink, added to the accusations of systematic failure by calling upon parliamentarians to also take responsibility for voting in the strict laws.

“They should look themselves in the mirror,” he wrote in an op-ed in NRC Handelsblad, “and question their own role in this affair.”

Insiders expected Rutte to shrug off any criticism very easily. “Yes, it is a disgrace this happened under Rutte’s responsibility,” said Joost Vullings, a political commentator, “but if anyone knows how to not feel embarrassed it is our prime minister. He will go full throttle to win the upcoming elections.”

Rutte said last month that the tax campaign detailed in the December report was “shameful,” and that the government has announced that nearly 10,000 families will each be given compensation of 30,000 euros, or about $36,500. Earlier this week Rutte insisted that the government should not step down because it could weaken the nation’s response to the pandemic.

The Netherlands has grappled with the coronavirus since March, and its inability to curb the spread of the disease has laid bare what many say are systemic problems with overregulation. Like many countries in Europe, the Netherlands is in lockdown.

A report in November ranked the government as a leading global tax haven for large corporations, so its pursuit of individuals for relatively small amounts did not go unnoticed.

This duality and others in Dutch politics highlight the downsides of the Dutch poldermodel, a system of subjecting every major decision to review by every institution, representative or even individual involved. The outcome is always a compromise.

“This affair is an example of a systematic mistake, that has risen from our coalition politics, where every party is scoring points for their own supporters,” said Sheila Sitalsing, a commentator for de Volkskrant, “but the final compromise becomes impossible to execute for those having to work with it on a daily basis.”

Sitalsing also said that voters for two decades have been rewarding politicians promising stricter rules. “So this is what you get,” she said of the child benefits scandal.

Families targeted by the tax authority on Tuesday stepped up the pressure on Rutte by calling for his Cabinet to step down in an open letter published in the Trouw newspaper.

“What needs to be done is clear: Everything should be repaired and cleaned up,” a group of families said. “We have no faith the current Cabinet is capable of doing this.”

In a rather unique move in the Netherlands, the families this week filed criminal charges against five politicians, including Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra and Economy Minister Eric Wiebes, for their role in the affair. If convicted, they could face up to six months in prison.

“We pressed criminal charges because the victims I represent have been ruined, some became homeless because of these policies. These politicians have been extremely negligent,” said Vasco Groeneveld, a lawyer representing 20 victims. “Every time I open their files, shivers run down my spine. These people have been treated awfully.”

Wiebes, who was minister of finances in a previous Cabinet, will resign immediately and will not stay on in the caretaker government, NOS reported.

On Thursday, the opposition leader Lodewijk Asscher, a former minister of social affairs, stepped down as leader of the Dutch Labour Party over his role. His resignation increased the pressure on Rutte to reconsider his position.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders, and his Cabinet resigned Friday over a report highlighting systemic failure by his government to protect thousands of families from overzealous tax inspectors.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders, and his Cabinet resigned Friday over a report highlighting systemic failure by his government to protect thousands of families from overzealous tax inspectors. Rutte and his Cabinet will continue running the government in a caretaker capacity, with general elections already scheduled for March. His center-right party is currently leading in the polls. The other parties in his coalition, who have also been touched by the scandal, are not expected to call for earlier elections because of the coronavirus pandemic. “Mistakes have been made on all levels that have led to great injustice for thousands of families. Innocent people have been criminalized, and their lives destroyed,” Rutte said in a news conference. “This Cabinet has taken full responsibility.” Rutte said the report that led to the downfall of the Cabinet was “hard as nails” but “fair.” Rutte handed in his resignation and that of his entire Cabinet after riding his bicycle to see King Willem-Alexander van Oranje. He had been serving his third term as prime minister and had been leading the Netherlands since 2010. If his party gets the largest share of votes in the upcoming elections, he can serve a fourth term. The report, the result of an inquiry in which Rutte was also questioned, concluded that “unprecedented injustice” had been done to innocent families, some of whom were forced to immediately repay huge amounts in child care benefits. In many cases an administrative mistake like a missing signature was enough for the tax authority to label parents as frauds and fine families as much as tens of thousands of euros, the report said. “Fundamental principles of the rule of law were violated,” it concluded, blasting both the government and Parliament for creating “rock-hard laws” with little room to fairly consider individual cases. The chairman of the parliamentary committee that led the inquiry, Chris van Dam, said the system that was created to track down benefits fraud was “a mass process with no room for nuance.” In a separate investigation, the Dutch Data Protection Authority concluded that tax inspectors had discriminated against citizens with dual nationality. The former vice president of the Dutch Council of State, Herman Tjeenk Willink, added to the accusations of systematic failure by calling upon parliamentarians to also take responsibility for voting in the strict laws. “They should look themselves in the mirror,” he wrote in an op-ed in NRC Handelsblad, “and question their own role in this affair.” Insiders expected Rutte to shrug off any criticism very easily. “Yes, it is a disgrace this happened under Rutte’s responsibility,” said Joost Vullings, a political commentator, “but if anyone knows how to not feel embarrassed it is our prime minister. He will go full throttle to win the upcoming elections.” Rutte said last month that the tax campaign detailed in the December report was “shameful,” and that the government has announced that nearly 10,000 families will each be given compensation of 30,000 euros, or about $36,500. Earlier this week Rutte insisted that the government should not step down because it could weaken the nation’s response to the pandemic. The Netherlands has grappled with the coronavirus since March, and its inability to curb the spread of the disease has laid bare what many say are systemic problems with overregulation. Like many countries in Europe, the Netherlands is in lockdown. A report in November ranked the government as a leading global tax haven for large corporations, so its pursuit of individuals for relatively small amounts did not go unnoticed. This duality and others in Dutch politics highlight the downsides of the Dutch poldermodel, a system of subjecting every major decision to review by every institution, representative or even individual involved. The outcome is always a compromise. “This affair is an example of a systematic mistake, that has risen from our coalition politics, where every party is scoring points for their own supporters,” said Sheila Sitalsing, a commentator for de Volkskrant, “but the final compromise becomes impossible to execute for those having to work with it on a daily basis.” Sitalsing also said that voters for two decades have been rewarding politicians promising stricter rules. “So this is what you get,” she said of the child benefits scandal. Families targeted by the tax authority on Tuesday stepped up the pressure on Rutte by calling for his Cabinet to step down in an open letter published in the Trouw newspaper. “What needs to be done is clear: Everything should be repaired and cleaned up,” a group of families said. “We have no faith the current Cabinet is capable of doing this.” In a rather unique move in the Netherlands, the families this week filed criminal charges against five politicians, including Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra and Economy Minister Eric Wiebes, for their role in the affair. If convicted, they could face up to six months in prison. “We pressed criminal charges because the victims I represent have been ruined, some became homeless because of these policies. These politicians have been extremely negligent,” said Vasco Groeneveld, a lawyer representing 20 victims. “Every time I open their files, shivers run down my spine. These people have been treated awfully.” Wiebes, who was minister of finances in a previous Cabinet, will resign immediately and will not stay on in the caretaker government, NOS reported. On Thursday, the opposition leader Lodewijk Asscher, a former minister of social affairs, stepped down as leader of the Dutch Labour Party over his role. His resignation increased the pressure on Rutte to reconsider his position.

Government in Netherlands resigns after benefit scandal

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte was unable to meet his mother due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Rutte on Monday announced the death of 96-year-old Mieke Rutte-Dilling in a home in The Hague on 13 May.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte was unable to meet his mother due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Rutte on Monday announced the death of 96-year-old Mieke Rutte-Dilling in a home in The Hague on 13 May. “The prime minister has complied with all directives”, Rutte’s spokesman told when asked about reports that the premier had stuck to the rules and so not seen his mother before she died. His mother did not die of Covid-19 although there had earlier been an outbreak of the disease in the home where she was living, Dutch media reported. Rutte earlier announced his mother’s death, saying that “in addition to the great sadness and all fond memories, my family and I also have a feeling of gratitude that we were allowed to have her with us for so long.” “We have now said goodbye to her in a family circle and hope to be able to deal with this great loss in peace in the near future,” he added. Dutch authorities allowed individual visits to some care homes from Monday, a measure that will be extended to all of them on 15 June. The Netherlands – which has imposed an “intelligent lockdown” with less strict conditions than many other European countries, though there have been concerns over a return to tourism in cities like Amsterdam.

Dutch PM Mark Rutte did not visit dying mother due to Covid-19 lockdown

Polls opened in the Netherlands on Thursday for European Parliament elections, launching four days of voting across the EU in which populists hope to make big gains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-new-zealand-scores-lower-than-syria-and-north-korea-on-childrens-rights-rankings-218581">Britain</a> and the Netherlands are the first countries to vote in the polls, with more than 400 million voters across the 28-nation bloc eligible to elect 751 MEPs.&nbsp;

Flamboyant Dutch eurosceptic Thierry Baudet and his populist Forum for Democracy are on course to match Prime Minister Mark Rutte's Liberals with five European Parliament seats each, according to recent opinion polls.

Dutch exit polls are expected on Thursday night but official EU results will not be announced until Sunday.

Rutte and Baudet held a fiesty television debate on the eve of the vote, facing off on issues including immigration, Russia and Baudet's controversial comments about women.

Once best known for naked Instagram selfies and controversial comments about women, Baudet, 36, stunned Europe in March when his upstart party came out of nowhere to became the biggest in the Dutch Senate.

These are the ninth European parliament elections since they began in 1979 and voter turnout has dropped each time, hitting 43 per cent in 2014.

European governments fear a good showing for eurosceptics will disrupt Brussels decision-making.

Opinion polls predict a significant advance for nationalist and populist forces opposed to closer EU integration and threatening mainstream reform efforts.

Matteo Salvini of Italy's anti-immigrant League and Marine Le Pen of France's far-right National Rally (RN) want their Europe of Nations and Freedom (ENF) group to become the third largest in Brussels.

Polls opened in the Netherlands on Thursday for European Parliament elections, launching four days of voting across the EU in which populists hope to make big gains.

Polls opened in the Netherlands on Thursday for European Parliament elections, launching four days of voting across the EU in which populists hope to make big gains. Britain and the Netherlands are the first countries to vote in the polls, with more than 400 million voters across the 28-nation bloc eligible to elect 751 MEPs. Flamboyant Dutch eurosceptic Thierry Baudet and his populist Forum for Democracy are on course to match Prime Minister Mark Rutte's Liberals with five European Parliament seats each, according to recent opinion polls. Dutch exit polls are expected on Thursday night but official EU results will not be announced until Sunday. Rutte and Baudet held a fiesty television debate on the eve of the vote, facing off on issues including immigration, Russia and Baudet's controversial comments about women. Once best known for naked Instagram selfies and controversial comments about women, Baudet, 36, stunned Europe in March when his upstart party came out of nowhere to became the biggest in the Dutch Senate. These are the ninth European parliament elections since they began in 1979 and voter turnout has dropped each time, hitting 43 per cent in 2014. European governments fear a good showing for eurosceptics will disrupt Brussels decision-making. Opinion polls predict a significant advance for nationalist and populist forces opposed to closer EU integration and threatening mainstream reform efforts. Matteo Salvini of Italy's anti-immigrant League and Marine Le Pen of France's far-right National Rally (RN) want their Europe of Nations and Freedom (ENF) group to become the third largest in Brussels.

European Union elections kick off as Dutch polls open

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members.

Here are five things to watch out for:

&nbsp;Populist high tide

A very loose coalition of populist and eurosceptic forces hope to make inroads into the parliament and threaten the mainstream consensus in support of closer EU integration.

Brussels officials fear they could win 200 of the 751 seats, buoyed by strong showings by Matteo Salvini's Italian far-right League and Marine Le Pen's National Rally from France.

But observers doubt the populists' ability to form an effective coalition, and the mainstream centrist blocs could welcome liberal and Green members into a broader alliance to contain the threat.

Turnout doomed to fall

In the first election to the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/last-hurdle-for-european-union-copyright-reform-in-european-parliament-205332"> European Parliament</a> in 1979, 62 per cent of eligible voters in what were then nine member states took part.

Since then the number of members has swollen to 28, but turnout has fallen very five years, to just over 42 per cent in the last election in 2014.

Mainstream national leaders like France's President Emmanuel Macron and Dutch premier Mark Rutte have urged voters to turn out to resist the advance of eurosceptic forces.&nbsp;

But another low turnout would be seen by many as further evidence that the concerns of Brussels are increasingly divorced from the popular mood.

Last chance for lead candidates

Europe's national leaders are extremely sceptical of ceding authority to the European Parliament to choose a candidate for Brussels' top job, president of the European Commission.

But if, for example, the centre-right EPP bloc were to emerge with strong support, it would strengthen its case for its lead candidate, Bavarian conservative Manfred Weber.

Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has vowed to champion her ally next week when the leaders meet to discuss names for Europe's main posts.

But a low turnout and an unclear result in the case would strengthen the hands of leaders like Macron and Rutte who oppose the entire "spitzenkandidat" process.

&nbsp;Britain's last hurrah

Since the last European election, British voters have decided to quit the Union altogether, and this week's election might be the last for UK parties.

Brexit Day itself has been postponed, triggering a crisis for Prime Minister Theresa May's government, and Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is expected to do well.

British media report that May will step down as leader of the Conservative Party on Friday, opening space for a more eurosceptic premier to take charge before the October 31 deadline.

This in turn, along with the performance of pro-EU parties, will influence the debate in the other EU capitals about whether to accord Britain another Brexit extension.

Green shoots

Hundreds of thousands of mainly young Europeans, inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, have taken to the streets in recent months to demand action on climate change.

Through school strikes, civil disobedience and large-scale marches, the movements has succeeded in pushing the issue up the agenda for European political debate.

But will this translate into more votes for Green parties in this week's poll?

Probably not, at least continent-wide. The school strikes, for example, were carried out by those too young to vote, and the movement is better organised in some countries than others.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Polls predict the Green bloc in the 751-seat EU parliament will remain at around 50 members but may become more powerful as a kingmaker if the two main centrist parties fall short of a majority.

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members.

Voting got underway on Thursday in Britain and the Netherlands in the ninth European Parliamentary election, which will continue for three more days in the 26 other EU members. Here are five things to watch out for: Populist high tide A very loose coalition of populist and eurosceptic forces hope to make inroads into the parliament and threaten the mainstream consensus in support of closer EU integration. Brussels officials fear they could win 200 of the 751 seats, buoyed by strong showings by Matteo Salvini's Italian far-right League and Marine Le Pen's National Rally from France. But observers doubt the populists' ability to form an effective coalition, and the mainstream centrist blocs could welcome liberal and Green members into a broader alliance to contain the threat. Turnout doomed to fall In the first election to the European Parliament in 1979, 62 per cent of eligible voters in what were then nine member states took part. Since then the number of members has swollen to 28, but turnout has fallen very five years, to just over 42 per cent in the last election in 2014. Mainstream national leaders like France's President Emmanuel Macron and Dutch premier Mark Rutte have urged voters to turn out to resist the advance of eurosceptic forces. But another low turnout would be seen by many as further evidence that the concerns of Brussels are increasingly divorced from the popular mood. Last chance for lead candidates Europe's national leaders are extremely sceptical of ceding authority to the European Parliament to choose a candidate for Brussels' top job, president of the European Commission. But if, for example, the centre-right EPP bloc were to emerge with strong support, it would strengthen its case for its lead candidate, Bavarian conservative Manfred Weber. Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has vowed to champion her ally next week when the leaders meet to discuss names for Europe's main posts. But a low turnout and an unclear result in the case would strengthen the hands of leaders like Macron and Rutte who oppose the entire "spitzenkandidat" process. Britain's last hurrah Since the last European election, British voters have decided to quit the Union altogether, and this week's election might be the last for UK parties. Brexit Day itself has been postponed, triggering a crisis for Prime Minister Theresa May's government, and Nigel Farage's Brexit Party is expected to do well. British media report that May will step down as leader of the Conservative Party on Friday, opening space for a more eurosceptic premier to take charge before the October 31 deadline. This in turn, along with the performance of pro-EU parties, will influence the debate in the other EU capitals about whether to accord Britain another Brexit extension. Green shoots Hundreds of thousands of mainly young Europeans, inspired by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, have taken to the streets in recent months to demand action on climate change. Through school strikes, civil disobedience and large-scale marches, the movements has succeeded in pushing the issue up the agenda for European political debate. But will this translate into more votes for Green parties in this week's poll? Probably not, at least continent-wide. The school strikes, for example, were carried out by those too young to vote, and the movement is better organised in some countries than others. Polls predict the Green bloc in the 751-seat EU parliament will remain at around 50 members but may become more powerful as a kingmaker if the two main centrist parties fall short of a majority.

European Union elections: Five things to watch

Dutch prosecutors are to charge the suspect in a gun attack in a packed Utrecht tram with "terrorist" killings, saying he will appear for the first time before a judge on Friday.

"The 37-year-old suspect will appear before a judge on Friday, charged with multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat," the public prosecution service said in a statement on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, authorities said they had found a suspicious letter in a getaway car used by Turkish-born main suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, which made them "seriously" consider terrorism might have been involved in Monday's rampage in which three people were killed and seven injured.

Armed counter-terrorism officers meanwhile arrested one new suspect, aged 40, in Utrecht who was "suspected of being involved in the shooting incident", prosecutors said, adding that his "role was being further investigated."&nbsp;

Two other men who were arrested Monday in connection with the shooting had been released, prosecutors added.

Meanwhile, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte&nbsp;laid flowers for the victims at the scene of the attack and said he was "still filled with horror" by the bloodshed.

Dutch prosecutors are to charge the suspect in a gun attack in a packed Utrecht tram with "terrorist" killings, saying he will appear for the first time before a judge on Friday.

Dutch prosecutors are to charge the suspect in a gun attack in a packed Utrecht tram with "terrorist" killings, saying he will appear for the first time before a judge on Friday. "The 37-year-old suspect will appear before a judge on Friday, charged with multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat," the public prosecution service said in a statement on Thursday. Earlier in the day, authorities said they had found a suspicious letter in a getaway car used by Turkish-born main suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, which made them "seriously" consider terrorism might have been involved in Monday's rampage in which three people were killed and seven injured. Armed counter-terrorism officers meanwhile arrested one new suspect, aged 40, in Utrecht who was "suspected of being involved in the shooting incident", prosecutors said, adding that his "role was being further investigated." Two other men who were arrested Monday in connection with the shooting had been released, prosecutors added. Meanwhile, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte laid flowers for the victims at the scene of the attack and said he was "still filled with horror" by the bloodshed.

Dutch tram gunman to be charged with 'terrorist' killings

Dutch police said they were investigating a terrorist motive for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-at-several-locations-in-hollands-utrecht-city-counter-terrorism-agency-204108">Utrecht tram attack</a>, as they arrested a new suspect on Tuesday over the deadly shooting.

Authorities said they had found a suspicious letter in a getaway car used by Turkish-born main suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, which made them "seriously" consider terrorism might have been involved in Monday's rampage in which three people were killed and seven injured.

Armed counter-terrorism officers meanwhile arrested one new suspect, aged 40, in Utrecht who was "suspected of being involved in the shooting incident", prosecutors said, adding that his "role was being further investigated."&nbsp;

Two other men who were arrested Monday in connection with the shooting had been released, prosecutors added.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte earlier in the day laid flowers for the victims at the scene of the attack and said he was "still filled with horror" by the bloodshed.

"So far, a terrorist motive is seriously being taken into account. This is based on a letter found in the getaway car among other things and the nature of the facts," Dutch police and prosecutors said in a joint statement.

Apparently ruling out reports that the shooting was due to a family dispute, the statement added: "Our investigation has established no link between the main suspect and the victims."&nbsp;

The three people who died in the shooting were a 19-year-old woman from Vianen, south of Utrecht, and two men aged 28 and 49 from Utrecht itself, the statement said.

Armed police captured Tanis after an eight-hour manhunt that virtually shut down the Netherlands' fourth largest city and saw security stepped up at airports and key sites across the country.

'Filled with horror' 
Police said they found a red Renault Clio that the suspect had carjacked before the attack and used as a getaway car afterwards. They had also found a firearm after his arrest.

Tanis is expected to appear before a judge later this week in a closed-door hearing after which he most likely will be remanded in custody.

A stream of mourners laid flowers on Tuesday at the site of the attack near the 24 Oktoberplein square.

"One of the victims was my friend's girlfriend. So coming here today was the least I could do," Marco van Rooijen, 43, told AFP.

The attack raised security fears ahead of Wednesday's provincial elections in the Netherlands. Populist and far-right parties have seized on the attack to push their agenda for the polls but Rutte has remained restrained.

"A day later, I am still filled with horror," Rutte told parliament.&nbsp;

"There are still many questions about the motive, and the police and prosecutors still have to do a lot of work. But there is no doubt that the impact was huge."

Flags were flying half-mast on many buildings around the Netherlands and on foreign embassies.

Public transport was running again after forensic police finished their investigations at the scene and removed the tram on which the shooting erupted.

'Completely mad' 
But there was also growing anger after it emerged that the suspect had only been freed from jail in a rape case two weeks ago.

Tanis was originally arrested in 2017 then released from pre-trial detention, before being taken back into custody when he breached his bail conditions, the central Netherlands district court said.&nbsp;

He was freed again at the start of March.

In 2014, he was also convicted of "illegal possession of weapons" and attempted theft but acquitted of attempted manslaughter. He was also convicted in recent months for shoplifting and burglary.

Broadcaster NOS meanwhile said some of his relatives had links to fundamentalist Islamic groups, but also that he was known for unstable behaviour after divorcing his wife two years ago.

A woman involved in the rape case told the Algemeen Dagblad newspaper: "He is completely mad and uses drugs. I have previously warned the police against him. He's not a terrorist but a psychopath."

Support for the Netherlands poured in from around the world, including the United States, the EU and Russia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said: "America stands with you. We will continue to do all we can to help you in this terrible time of tragedy."&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country's intelligence agency was "looking into" the attack.&nbsp;

Dutch police said they were investigating a terrorist motive for the Utrecht tram attack, as they arrested a new suspect on Tuesday over the deadly shooting. Authorities said they had found a suspicious letter in a getaway car used by Turkish-born main suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, which made them "seriously" consider terrorism might have been involved in Monday's rampage in which three people were killed and seven injured.

Dutch police said they were investigating a terrorist motive for the Utrecht tram attack, as they arrested a new suspect on Tuesday over the deadly shooting. Authorities said they had found a suspicious letter in a getaway car used by Turkish-born main suspect Gokmen Tanis, 37, which made them "seriously" consider terrorism might have been involved in Monday's rampage in which three people were killed and seven injured. Armed counter-terrorism officers meanwhile arrested one new suspect, aged 40, in Utrecht who was "suspected of being involved in the shooting incident", prosecutors said, adding that his "role was being further investigated." Two other men who were arrested Monday in connection with the shooting had been released, prosecutors added. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte earlier in the day laid flowers for the victims at the scene of the attack and said he was "still filled with horror" by the bloodshed. "So far, a terrorist motive is seriously being taken into account. This is based on a letter found in the getaway car among other things and the nature of the facts," Dutch police and prosecutors said in a joint statement. Apparently ruling out reports that the shooting was due to a family dispute, the statement added: "Our investigation has established no link between the main suspect and the victims." The three people who died in the shooting were a 19-year-old woman from Vianen, south of Utrecht, and two men aged 28 and 49 from Utrecht itself, the statement said. Armed police captured Tanis after an eight-hour manhunt that virtually shut down the Netherlands' fourth largest city and saw security stepped up at airports and key sites across the country. 'Filled with horror' Police said they found a red Renault Clio that the suspect had carjacked before the attack and used as a getaway car afterwards. They had also found a firearm after his arrest. Tanis is expected to appear before a judge later this week in a closed-door hearing after which he most likely will be remanded in custody. A stream of mourners laid flowers on Tuesday at the site of the attack near the 24 Oktoberplein square. "One of the victims was my friend's girlfriend. So coming here today was the least I could do," Marco van Rooijen, 43, told AFP. The attack raised security fears ahead of Wednesday's provincial elections in the Netherlands. Populist and far-right parties have seized on the attack to push their agenda for the polls but Rutte has remained restrained. "A day later, I am still filled with horror," Rutte told parliament. "There are still many questions about the motive, and the police and prosecutors still have to do a lot of work. But there is no doubt that the impact was huge." Flags were flying half-mast on many buildings around the Netherlands and on foreign embassies. Public transport was running again after forensic police finished their investigations at the scene and removed the tram on which the shooting erupted. 'Completely mad' But there was also growing anger after it emerged that the suspect had only been freed from jail in a rape case two weeks ago. Tanis was originally arrested in 2017 then released from pre-trial detention, before being taken back into custody when he breached his bail conditions, the central Netherlands district court said. He was freed again at the start of March. In 2014, he was also convicted of "illegal possession of weapons" and attempted theft but acquitted of attempted manslaughter. He was also convicted in recent months for shoplifting and burglary. Broadcaster NOS meanwhile said some of his relatives had links to fundamentalist Islamic groups, but also that he was known for unstable behaviour after divorcing his wife two years ago. A woman involved in the rape case told the Algemeen Dagblad newspaper: "He is completely mad and uses drugs. I have previously warned the police against him. He's not a terrorist but a psychopath." Support for the Netherlands poured in from around the world, including the United States, the EU and Russia. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said: "America stands with you. We will continue to do all we can to help you in this terrible time of tragedy." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country's intelligence agency was "looking into" the attack.

Dutch tram shooting: Police arrest new suspect, continue to suspect terror motive

Dutch PM: 'very worried' after Utrecht shooting

Prime Minister Theresa May stepped up her warnings on Monday that delaying Brexit was no way to solve the impasse in parliament over Britain's departure from the European Union, saying a timely exit was "within our grasp".

She said she wanted Brexit to happen as planned on March 29 and shrugged off expectations that she will be forced to delay to avoid leaving the EU in a disorderly way without an agreement.

With <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/another-delay-britains-may-promises-brexit-vote-in-parliament-by-march-12-199386">Britain's Brexit crisis going down to the wire</a>, May is struggling to get the kind of changes from the EU she says she needs to get her divorce deal through a divided parliament and smooth the country's biggest policy shift in more than 40 years.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/european-unions-tusk-says-brexit-delay-would-be-rational-199671"> European Union's Tusk says Brexit delay would be 'rational'</a>

In Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh for an EU/Arab League summit, she met the bloc's leaders to push her efforts to make her deal more attractive to parliament, where frustrated lawmakers are gearing up to try to wrest control of Brexit from the government.

While she said EU leaders had given her a sense that a deal could be won, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said they risked "sleepwalking" into a no deal Brexit and European Council President Donald Tusk described any delay as "a rational decision".

For now, though, May is sticking firmly to the script, saying extending the negotiating period with the EU, which was triggered by Article 50, would not solve the Brexit problem.

"What it does is precisely what the word 'delay' says. It just delays the point at which you come to that decision," she told reporters at the summit. "And I think that any extension of Article 50, in that sense, isn't addressing the issue. We have (a deal) within our grasp."

May has promised to bring back a vote on her divorce settlement to parliament by March 12.

But earlier, one UK official indicated delay could be an option if lawmakers refuse to pass May's deal.

Tobias Ellwood, a defence minister, also told BBC radio: "If we cannot get this deal across the line, we are facing the prospect of having to extend."

The EU has said it is willing to grant an extension if there is evidence parliament could pass the deal after rejecting it last month in the government's biggest defeat in modern British history.

European Council President Donald Tusk said it was clear there was no majority in the British parliament for a deal.

"We will face an alternative, chaotic Brexit, or an extension," Tusk told a news conference.

"I believe that in the situation we are in, an extension would be a rational decision, but prime minister May still believes she will be able to avoid this scenario."

The EU has said any agreement on a revised Brexit deal must be sealed by the bloc's summit of national leaders on March 21-22 at the latest and May suggested that parliament could approve the deal before the bloc signed off on it.

Parliamentary woes

While sterling rallied on the suggestion of a delay, May has to tread carefully, with eurosceptics poised to leap on anything they see as an attempt to thwart Brexit.

"I think it would be disastrous if we had a delay," said Bernard Jenkin, a Conservative pro-Brexit lawmaker. "I think that faith in our politics - what faith is left in it - would evaporate."

May decided to push back a vote on her deal to give more time for talks to secure changes to the Irish backstop, an insurance policy to prevent the return of a hard border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland.

A spokeswoman for Jean-Claude Juncker, European Commission president, said progress was being made. Britain's Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will hold more talks in Brussels on Tuesday.

But with the clock ticking down, some lawmakers are trying to prevent a no-deal Brexit, a scenario many say could damage the world's fifth largest economy.

Several of their plans would involve delaying Britain's departure beyond March 29 to win more time to break the deadlock in parliament.

Yvette Cooper, a Labour lawmaker, has called on parliament to back her bid to seek to force the government to hand power to parliament if no deal has been approved by March 13 and to offer lawmakers the option of requesting an extension.

But there is another, perhaps more attractive, proposal to the government, from two Conservatives, which would delay Brexit to May 23, the start of the European Parliament elections, if lawmakers have not approved a deal by March 12.

A government official said the proposal could be considered "helpful".

Prime Minister Theresa May stepped up her warnings on Monday that delaying Brexit was no way to solve the impasse in parliament over Britain's departure from the European Union, saying a timely exit was "within our grasp".

Prime Minister Theresa May stepped up her warnings on Monday that delaying Brexit was no way to solve the impasse in parliament over Britain's departure from the European Union, saying a timely exit was "within our grasp". She said she wanted Brexit to happen as planned on March 29 and shrugged off expectations that she will be forced to delay to avoid leaving the EU in a disorderly way without an agreement. With Britain's Brexit crisis going down to the wire, May is struggling to get the kind of changes from the EU she says she needs to get her divorce deal through a divided parliament and smooth the country's biggest policy shift in more than 40 years. Also read: European Union's Tusk says Brexit delay would be 'rational' In Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh for an EU/Arab League summit, she met the bloc's leaders to push her efforts to make her deal more attractive to parliament, where frustrated lawmakers are gearing up to try to wrest control of Brexit from the government. While she said EU leaders had given her a sense that a deal could be won, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said they risked "sleepwalking" into a no deal Brexit and European Council President Donald Tusk described any delay as "a rational decision". For now, though, May is sticking firmly to the script, saying extending the negotiating period with the EU, which was triggered by Article 50, would not solve the Brexit problem. "What it does is precisely what the word 'delay' says. It just delays the point at which you come to that decision," she told reporters at the summit. "And I think that any extension of Article 50, in that sense, isn't addressing the issue. We have (a deal) within our grasp." May has promised to bring back a vote on her divorce settlement to parliament by March 12. But earlier, one UK official indicated delay could be an option if lawmakers refuse to pass May's deal. Tobias Ellwood, a defence minister, also told BBC radio: "If we cannot get this deal across the line, we are facing the prospect of having to extend." The EU has said it is willing to grant an extension if there is evidence parliament could pass the deal after rejecting it last month in the government's biggest defeat in modern British history. European Council President Donald Tusk said it was clear there was no majority in the British parliament for a deal. "We will face an alternative, chaotic Brexit, or an extension," Tusk told a news conference. "I believe that in the situation we are in, an extension would be a rational decision, but prime minister May still believes she will be able to avoid this scenario." The EU has said any agreement on a revised Brexit deal must be sealed by the bloc's summit of national leaders on March 21-22 at the latest and May suggested that parliament could approve the deal before the bloc signed off on it. Parliamentary woes While sterling rallied on the suggestion of a delay, May has to tread carefully, with eurosceptics poised to leap on anything they see as an attempt to thwart Brexit. "I think it would be disastrous if we had a delay," said Bernard Jenkin, a Conservative pro-Brexit lawmaker. "I think that faith in our politics - what faith is left in it - would evaporate." May decided to push back a vote on her deal to give more time for talks to secure changes to the Irish backstop, an insurance policy to prevent the return of a hard border between the British province of Northern Ireland and EU-member Ireland. A spokeswoman for Jean-Claude Juncker, European Commission president, said progress was being made. Britain's Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay and Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will hold more talks in Brussels on Tuesday. But with the clock ticking down, some lawmakers are trying to prevent a no-deal Brexit, a scenario many say could damage the world's fifth largest economy. Several of their plans would involve delaying Britain's departure beyond March 29 to win more time to break the deadlock in parliament. Yvette Cooper, a Labour lawmaker, has called on parliament to back her bid to seek to force the government to hand power to parliament if no deal has been approved by March 13 and to offer lawmakers the option of requesting an extension. But there is another, perhaps more attractive, proposal to the government, from two Conservatives, which would delay Brexit to May 23, the start of the European Parliament elections, if lawmakers have not approved a deal by March 12. A government official said the proposal could be considered "helpful".

Brexit delay will not solve impasse over deal: PM Theresa May warns

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">Brexit "Plan B"</a> to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day.

Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 without a deal unless MPs can force a delay or get their act together in time and come up with an alternative plan that Brussels is also happy with.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/worlds-largest-economies-india-likely-to-surpass-uk-this-year-says-pwc-191559">The world's fifth-biggest economy</a> could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports.

London and Brussels have spent the best part of two years working on a divorce agreement but MPs in parliament's lower House of Commons comprehensively rejected it on Tuesday.

May's government then survived a confidence vote on Wednesday and set about talks with figures from rival parties.

But the main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn stayed away, saying a "no-deal" departure must be ruled out first -- something May says is impossible.

May spoke to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday, and to EU leaders Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk by telephone Friday to discuss where to go next on Brexit.

EU chiefs have so far ruled out renegotiating the agreement, but have signalled they could postpone the withdrawal if May changes her "red lines" on leaving the EU's customs union and blocking the free movement of citizens.

Amendments 
After May sets out her plans for the way ahead, lawmakers are set to table a series of amendments, to be voted upon on January 29.

At least two cross-party groups of MPs are planning to table amendments to enable backbenchers to delay or frustrate May's proposals.

One would suspend the withdrawal process if there is no new deal with Brussels by the end of February.

A second would enable backbenchers to choose to debate and vote on Brexit issues, one day a week -- breaking the convention that the government controls the parliamentary timetable.

May's Downing Street office has called them "extremely concerning".

"You've got a Leave population and a Remain parliament," said International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, one of the senior Brexiteers in May's cabinet.

"Parliament has not got the right to hijack the Brexit process... and in fact steal the result from the people," he told BBC television.

Britain voted by a 52-48 margin in favour of leaving the EU in a referendum in 2016 that exposed deep divisions in British society.

Irish backstop 
One of the most problematic areas of the divorce deal is the so-called backstop on the Irish border -- a legal guarantee that the frontier would remain free-flowing if Britain and the EU cannot agree a long-term free trade pact.&nbsp;

Britain could not unilaterally pull out of the backstop.

The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that May would propose a separate arrangement with Dublin.

"She wants to offer a bilateral treaty to Ireland that would remove the hated 'backstop' from the EU withdrawal treaty and prevent a hard border by other means," the weekly broadsheet said.

Aides believe that would help win over Conservative eurosceptics on her backbenches, and the party's Democratic Unionist Party allies -- counted upon for a majority. The DUP are Northern Ireland's biggest party.

Graham Brady, who chairs the Conservative backbenchers' group, said he thought May could get her Brexit deal past Conservative rebels if the Irish backstop "can be sorted out".

"So much of the vote against was from people who simply cannot support a potentially permanent backstop, if that can be sorted out then I think we might get that withdrawal agreement through," he told BBC radio.

He said it was in Ireland's interests to help Britain leave the EU with a deal, saying they would be far more hurt by a no-deal Brexit that Britain as most of their trade comes through the UK.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Sunday that he and Prime Minister Leo Varadkar were in no mood to support alterations to the withdrawal agreement (WA) or the backstop.

"We remain united and focused on protecting Ireland," he said.

"That includes continued support for the EU/UK agreed WA in full, including the backstop as negotiated."

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day.

British Prime Minister Theresa May unveils her Brexit "Plan B" to parliament on Monday after MPs shredded her EU divorce deal, deepening the political gridlock 10 weeks from departure day. Britain will leave the European Union on March 29 without a deal unless MPs can force a delay or get their act together in time and come up with an alternative plan that Brussels is also happy with. The world's fifth-biggest economy could lose preferential access to its largest export market overnight, affecting every sector, leading to rising costs and disruption at British ports. London and Brussels have spent the best part of two years working on a divorce agreement but MPs in parliament's lower House of Commons comprehensively rejected it on Tuesday. May's government then survived a confidence vote on Wednesday and set about talks with figures from rival parties. But the main opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn stayed away, saying a "no-deal" departure must be ruled out first -- something May says is impossible. May spoke to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday, and to EU leaders Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk by telephone Friday to discuss where to go next on Brexit. EU chiefs have so far ruled out renegotiating the agreement, but have signalled they could postpone the withdrawal if May changes her "red lines" on leaving the EU's customs union and blocking the free movement of citizens. Amendments After May sets out her plans for the way ahead, lawmakers are set to table a series of amendments, to be voted upon on January 29. At least two cross-party groups of MPs are planning to table amendments to enable backbenchers to delay or frustrate May's proposals. One would suspend the withdrawal process if there is no new deal with Brussels by the end of February. A second would enable backbenchers to choose to debate and vote on Brexit issues, one day a week -- breaking the convention that the government controls the parliamentary timetable. May's Downing Street office has called them "extremely concerning". "You've got a Leave population and a Remain parliament," said International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, one of the senior Brexiteers in May's cabinet. "Parliament has not got the right to hijack the Brexit process... and in fact steal the result from the people," he told BBC television. Britain voted by a 52-48 margin in favour of leaving the EU in a referendum in 2016 that exposed deep divisions in British society. Irish backstop One of the most problematic areas of the divorce deal is the so-called backstop on the Irish border -- a legal guarantee that the frontier would remain free-flowing if Britain and the EU cannot agree a long-term free trade pact. Britain could not unilaterally pull out of the backstop. The Sunday Times newspaper claimed that May would propose a separate arrangement with Dublin. "She wants to offer a bilateral treaty to Ireland that would remove the hated 'backstop' from the EU withdrawal treaty and prevent a hard border by other means," the weekly broadsheet said. Aides believe that would help win over Conservative eurosceptics on her backbenches, and the party's Democratic Unionist Party allies -- counted upon for a majority. The DUP are Northern Ireland's biggest party. Graham Brady, who chairs the Conservative backbenchers' group, said he thought May could get her Brexit deal past Conservative rebels if the Irish backstop "can be sorted out". "So much of the vote against was from people who simply cannot support a potentially permanent backstop, if that can be sorted out then I think we might get that withdrawal agreement through," he told BBC radio. He said it was in Ireland's interests to help Britain leave the EU with a deal, saying they would be far more hurt by a no-deal Brexit that Britain as most of their trade comes through the UK. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said Sunday that he and Prime Minister Leo Varadkar were in no mood to support alterations to the withdrawal agreement (WA) or the backstop. "We remain united and focused on protecting Ireland," he said. "That includes continued support for the EU/UK agreed WA in full, including the backstop as negotiated."

Brexit: UK PM May to unveil 'Plan B' today

Mark Rutte, prime minister of the Netherlands, has been praised for taking the time to clear up his own coffee spill.

He was filmed knocking the hot drink over as he went through security barriers at the Dutch parliament.

Mark Rutte, who has led the Netherlands since 2010, perhaps conscious he was on camera, went to lengths to find a mop and clean the mess up.

He was applauded by cleaning personnel before they showed him how to adjust the mop’s height to suit the tall prime minister.

This is not the first time Mark Rutte has become an internet hit.

In October 2017, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte became an instant legend, as he cycled to the Royal Palace to meet King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
? 
 
Question: what would the president or prime minister of your country do if he/she would accidentally drop a cup of coffee? ☕️ 
 
I am proud of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte <a href="https://twitter.com/MinPres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MinPres</a> ?? 
 
And this is not just because it is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldEnvironmentDay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldEnvironmentDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/AQWn002HlD">pic.twitter.com/AQWn002HlD</a>
— Alexander Verbeek ? (@Alex_Verbeek) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alex_Verbeek/status/1004044288890757125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp

This is not the first time Mark Rutte has become an internet hit.

Mark Rutte, prime minister of the Netherlands, has been praised for taking the time to clear up his own coffee spill. He was filmed knocking the hot drink over as he went through security barriers at the Dutch parliament. Mark Rutte, who has led the Netherlands since 2010, perhaps conscious he was on camera, went to lengths to find a mop and clean the mess up. He was applauded by cleaning personnel before they showed him how to adjust the mop’s height to suit the tall prime minister. This is not the first time Mark Rutte has become an internet hit. In October 2017, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte became an instant legend, as he cycled to the Royal Palace to meet King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. ? Question: what would the president or prime minister of your country do if he/she would accidentally drop a cup of coffee? ☕️ I am proud of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte @MinPres ?? And this is not just because it is #WorldEnvironmentDay pic.twitter.com/AQWn002HlD — Alexander Verbeek ? (@Alex_Verbeek) June 5, 2018 ×

Watch: Dutch PM Mark Rutte drops coffee, cleans up the floor in Parliament

mark-rutte

Mark Rutte, News on Mark Rutte, stories on Mark Rutte, articles on Mark Rutte, Mark Rutte stories at Wion, Mark Rutte news, Mark Rutte latest news

mark rutte