Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas Steps Down to Become European Union’s Next Foreign Policy Chief
In a significant development, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has announced her resignation, effective immediately, to take up the role of the European Union’s next foreign policy chief. Kallas, who has led the Baltic state since 2021, handed her resignation letter to the president and will remain in office until a new government is formed and sworn in.
In a Monday interview with Estonian public radio, Kallas described her tenure as “a very hard time,” citing the challenges posed by the Covid-19 crisis. She recalled being the only prime minister to immediately start making decisions after being sworn in, amidst the pandemic’s peak.
Kallas, a hawkish Russia critic, was appointed as the EU’s next top diplomat last month, pending a vote in the European Parliament. Her nomination is expected to be put to a vote soon.
The outgoing premier is also expected to resign as leader of her Reform party later this summer. The ruling coalition of Kallas’ Reform, Social Democrats, and Estonia 200 are currently in talks to form a new government. Kristen Michal, the current climate minister, has been chosen as the Reform party’s candidate for prime minister.
Estonian President Alar Karis will now hold discussions with the parties to decide who to approach about replacing Kallas. This development marks a significant change in Estonia’s leadership, with Kallas set to take on a key role in European diplomacy.
