Kaja Kallas Set to Replace Josep Borrell as EU Foreign Policy Chief; a Shift in Israel and Russia Policies Predicted
ICARO Media Group
In a significant development on Friday, it has been reported that Kaja Kallas, the current Prime Minister of Estonia, is poised to replace Josep Borrell as the European Union's High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. This leadership change is anticipated to bring a shift in the EU's approach towards Israel and Russia.
Borrell, known for his critical stance towards Israel in its conflict with Hamas and escalating tensions with Hezbollah, has had a tenure marked by constant attacks on the Jewish state, according to the Jewish News Syndicate. However, Kallas, in contrast, has expressed support for Israel, particularly following the horrific Hamas massacre on October 7. In a previous statement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) in April, she strongly denounced Iran's unwarranted attack on Israel, describing it as an escalation that endangered lives.
Kallas is not only supportive of Israel's right to self-defense but also a proponent of a two-state solution. She has extensively addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, highlighting the need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Ynet reported that while Kallas acknowledges Israel's right to defend itself, she emphasizes the importance of a sustainable peace between Israel and Palestine.
Regarding Russia, Kallas's foreign policy is known for its critical approach to the nation's invasion of Ukraine. She has championed the idea of cooperation and assistance from partners, as she views Israel's successful interception of Iran's attack as a demonstration of the power of collaboration. This sentiment was expressed in a message to other EU leaders, where she emphasized the need to counter Russian aggression.
However, Kallas's appointment has drawn criticism from the Kremlin. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Russian government, said that Kallas is known for her anti-Russian rhetoric and intransigent statements. Peskov expressed concern over her lack of diplomatic inclinations, adding to the already strained relations between the European Union and Russia.
As the European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen secures another term and Kallas is nominated as the next EU foreign policy chief, the outlook for EU-Russia ties appears to be in a precarious state. The political landscape in the coming months will shed light on the potential shifts in Europe's policies towards Israel and Russia under Kallas's leadership.