AP’s NATO team elevated coverage of a pivotal summit in the Netherlands by seizing a unique opportunity and delivering a standout moment of field reporting.
After President Donald Trump leaked a flattering message from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Brussels senior producer Sylvain Plazy acted quickly on a tip—chasing down Rutte and securing his reaction on camera. The unscripted exchange brought clarity, accountability and buzz to what might have otherwise been a routine diplomatic event.
The team’s coverage, built on deep NATO beat expertise and tight coordination between European and Washington bureaus, consistently stayed ahead of competitors and helped set the tone for global media.
Judges praised the moment as a prime example of how smart, aggressive field reporting—backed by planning and collaboration—can uncover real news amid the formality of high-level summits.
For transforming summit coverage into agenda-setting journalism, the NATO team is this week’s Best of AP — First Winner.
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