EU Leaders Nominate von der Leyen for Second Term, Kallas for Foreign Policy Chief

Europe (Washington Insider Magazine)—Ursula von der Leyen has been nominated for a second term as European Commission president, while Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has been chosen as the EU’s foreign policy chief following a late-night agreement by European Union leaders. Former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa was also appointed to lead the European Council.

Despite opposition from Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the nominations secured broad backing from EU leaders. Von der Leyen and Kallas will still need the European Parliament’s approval, with the vote expected to be close after the recent far-right surge in EU elections.

Russian officials, including Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, expressed concerns over the nominations, noting von der Leyen and Kallas’ strong anti-Russian stances, further straining EU-Russia relations.

The summit also saw the signing of a security agreement with Ukraine, solidifying EU support for Kyiv as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. The agreement outlines EU commitments to military aid, arms deliveries, and defense cooperation with Ukraine, reaffirming Europe’s pledge to support Ukraine “as long as it takes.”