Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas was a strong contender for the position of NATO secretary-general, but her reputation as a Russia hawk hindered her chances. European NATO members recognized the need to involve eastern member states more in Brussels’ hierarchy due to the war in Ukraine. However, concerns over sending a Baltic leader as a strong message to Putin and uncertainties about US leadership also played a role. Kallas gracefully endorsed Mark Rutte for the NATO boss position, hinting at a potential entry into the office of EU high representative for foreign policy.
As an early alarm-raiser on Putin’s expansionist intentions, Kallas is seen as representing mainstream EU views. Her top priority will be fortifying European defenses against potential Russian aggression.
While Kallas has proposed joint EU borrowing for defense enhancement, convincing fiscally conservative states poses a challenge. Questions arise about potential clashes within the bloc and overshadowing the incoming NATO chief. Kallas’s diplomatic forte will be vital as the EU strategizes on Russia, China, the Middle East, and a rules-based global order.
Will Kallas Champion ‘Feminist Foreign Policy’?
The debate continues on Kallas’s potential advocacy for a feminist foreign policy, with considerations ranging from gender inclusivity to prioritizing human security over national security. With experts predicting Kallas aligning with the tradition rejecting inherent tension between feminist and security policies.
Edited by: Jon Shelton Jr.
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