14:55, June 25, 2024Source:
EU leaders representing the largest parties in the European Parliament have agreed on the candidacy of Ursula von der Leyen for a new term as head of the European Commission. This was reported by the German Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and dpa, as well as Politico, citing sources in the power structures of the European Union.
European diplomacy will be headed by Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister of Estonia. As EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Callas will replace Josep Borrell, who has held the position since December 2019.
The candidacy of former Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa has been agreed upon for the post of President of the European Council. He will replace Charles Michel.
The heads of government of Greece, Poland, Spain and the Netherlands, as well as the President of France and the Chancellor of Germany, took part in the discussion of candidates for positions in the EU leadership, Politico writes.
On June 27, the candidacies of von der Leyen, Callas and Costa will be presented to all heads of EU member states who will gather for the summit in Brussels.
Kaja Kallas was among the leaders of five EU countries who in January 2024 called on other EU countries to step up efforts to arm Ukraine and fund initiatives that would facilitate rapid supplies of ammunition. The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs put Callas on the wanted list on Russian territory, and the Russian Foreign Ministry banned her from entering the country.
(C)MEDUZA 2024
This is good news. I think!
Kallas – good choice.