The ruling Reform Party of Estonia has selected Kristen Michal to replace Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who is expected to become the EU’s new foreign policy chief. Michal, the current climate minister, will take over as Kallas transitions to her new role pending confirmation by the European Parliament. Michal emphasized that national security will remain a top priority during his tenure, especially given Estonia’s proximity to Russia.
A seasoned politician, Michal has been involved in Estonian politics since the late 1990s and is known for his strong political tactics. Michal’s appointment provides an alternative to Kallas, who brought valuable international experience but faced challenges on the domestic front. He also hinted at potentially reassessing the government’s current coalition agreement.
Watch: Is Russia preparing for war with NATO?
To get a closer look at Estonia’s national security concerns in the face of Russia’s actions, watch the embedded video above.
Overall, Michal’s selection marks a significant shift in Estonia’s leadership and signals a continued focus on protecting national interests.