Kaja Kallas: “Russia Will Not Intimidate Me,” Asserts Estonian PM

The warrant, issued on February 13th by Russian police, ostensibly accuses Kallas and several other Baltic politicians of destroying Soviet-era monuments.

However, Kallas dismisses this as a thinly veiled tactic aimed at undermining her resolve and influence on the international stage.

In an interview on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Kallas conveyed her steadfastness, stating, “It is meant to intimidate and make me refrain from the decisions that I would otherwise make,” highlighting Russia’s familiar playbook of coercion and intimidation.

Kallas’s vocal criticism of Russian actions, particularly in the aftermath of the invasion of Ukraine, has placed her squarely in the crosshairs of Kremlin scrutiny.

However, she remains resolute, asserting, “But it’s Russia’s playbook. It’s nothing surprising and we are not afraid.”

The timing of the warrant coincides with speculation surrounding Kallas’s potential ascension to a prominent EU role, possibly as foreign policy chief, following the upcoming EU parliamentary elections.

This speculation, coupled with Kallas’s advocacy for increased EU support for Ukraine, has exacerbated tensions with Russia, as Kallas herself acknowledges, remarking, “It’s hard to be popular.”

When queried about her interest in future European roles, she emphasised her current position, stating, “We are not there yet. I’m the prime minister of Estonia.”

Estonia’s proactive stance on European defence integration is evident in its efforts to bolster munitions supplies to Ukraine.

Last year, Estonia initiated talks within the EU to enhance munitions support for Kyiv, resulting in a commitment by EU members to deliver 1 million rounds of artillery ammunition by March.

However, challenges persist, with the bloc expected to fulfill only half of the target.

Kallas acknowledges these shortcomings, highlighting the imperative for greater collective action and efficiency within the EU’s defence framework.

Main image: Photographer: Daina Le Lardic: © European Union 2024 – Source : EP