Who is “Grinch”, the American general who takes over the position of Supreme Commander of NATO forces in Europe
US General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO forces commander in Europe (Saceur). Photo credit: Michael Brochstein / Zuma Press / Profimedia
General Alexus G. Grynkewich, from the US Air Force, took over the position of Supreme Ally Commander of NATO in Europe (Saceur), in a ceremony in the presence of the Secretary General of the North Atlantic Alliance, Mark Rutte.
Grynkewich, nicknamed “Grinch”, succeeded by General American Christopher G. Cavoli as the 21st commander Saceur, reports EFE and Agerpres.
Traditionally, this function is held by a four -star general in the United States Army.
“Being (commander) Saceur is to put yourself in his skin (Dwight D.) Eisenhower, to defend freedom, to oppose the aggression and to be with all the other allies. Be (commander) Saceur today is to lead in a volatile and dangerous world. The war has returned to Europe,” And, later, at the 34th president of the US.
NATO's military chief is always an American officer
In his farewell speech, Rutte praised Cavioli for the modernization of NATO's collective defense and for his activity in response to Russia's large -scale invasion in Ukraine.
Also, satisfied for strengthening the NATO presence in the Baltic Sea and for discourage and defense against threats regarding the critical submarine infrastructure.
Rutte also highlighted his work in the conception and establishment of the new NATO command in Germany to strengthen the support given to Ukraine.
Former Dutch prime minister also welcomed General Grynkewich and mentioned that he comes with a rich experience as commander Saceur.
As a former hunting pilot, he has “a deep understanding of the threats we are facing in the air and not only,” Rutte said, stressing that, as a last director of operations of the General Staff, General Grynkewich also has a vast experience in fulfilling military and security priorities.
“I know that NATO can rely on yourself and that you will serve with the same firm decision as your predecessors,” Rutte concluded.
The chief of Saceur is also the commander of the operations of the Allied Command (ACO), responsible for planning and executing all NATO operations.
