EU leaders consider stripping power from foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas

This week, France and Germany began high-level discussions about a radical overhaul of the European Union’s 15-year-old diplomatic service.

An informal French proposal suggests stripping significant powers and budget from High Representative Kaja Kallas, citing the current structure as "dysfunctional" during global crises. Kallas has launched a staunch defense of her office, arguing that dismantling the service now would constitute "geopolitical self-sabotage" while Europe faces wars in Ukraine and Iran. Critics suggest the move is part of a power struggle between Kallas and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for control over the bloc's global strategy.

European leaders will meet later this month to decide if the agency’s billion-euro budget should be gutted or reinforced.