Former Dutch Defense Min. appointed Sec. Gen. of EEAS

European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas announced on Wednesday the appointment of former Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren as the new Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), the diplomatic arm of the European Union. In a post on X, Kallas said "Kajsa brings with her 30 years of experience in public service, diplomacy and management of organizations, including as Dutch Minister of Defense, Minister of Interior and Secretary General of the Dutch Ministry of General Affairs". Kallas added that "her leadership will be a great asset in tackling the challenges ahead of us" expressing her anticipation of working together with Ollongren in the period ahead. Ollongren's appointment comes at a time when the European Union is placing increasing emphasis on defense and security issues. She is expected to play a key role in managing the EU's diplomatic service amid ongoing geopolitical challenges. Ollongren currently serves as the European Union's Human Rights Envoy. She previously served as Minister of Defense in the Dutch government led by Mark Rutte, the current Secretary General of NATO.