Dutch ex-defence chief Kajsa Ollongren named EUs second-ranking diplomat from September
Kajsa Ollongren, the former Dutch defence minister, will become the European Union’s second-ranking diplomat on 1 September, taking over as secretary-general of the European External Action Service (EEAS) from Spain’s Belén Martínez Carbonell, the bloc announced on Wednesday.
The appointment, confirmed by multiple outlets including *Politico Europe* and *La Libre Belgique* , marks a significant shift in the EU’s diplomatic leadership as Ollongren prepares to steer the 27-nation bloc’s foreign policy apparatus. The EEAS, often described as the EU’s de facto foreign ministry, coordinates the union’s global engagements, from trade negotiations to crisis response.
Ollongren, a veteran Dutch politician who previously served as defence minister and deputy prime minister under Mark Rutte, brings extensive experience in government and international affairs to the role. Her appointment follows months of speculation about the succession to Martínez Carbonell, whose tenure ended on schedule. The Dutch government welcomed the decision, with Prime Minister Dick Schoof stating that Ollongren’s “deep understanding of European security and defence will be invaluable” in her new position.
The move comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, with the EU navigating complex relationships with Russia, China, and the Middle East. Ollongren’s leadership will be closely watched as the bloc seeks to maintain unity amid divergent national priorities. Analysts suggest her appointment could reinforce the Netherlands’ influence within EU foreign policy circles, particularly on defence and security matters.
Reaction from EU capitals has been broadly positive, though some diplomats privately note that the transition period—spanning just two months—will be challenging. The EEAS, headquartered in Brussels, employs over 14,000 staff across the globe, tasked with implementing the EU’s foreign policy under the direction of High Representative Josep Borrell.
Ollongren’s confirmation follows earlier reports on Wednesday, including a breaking alert from *Politico* and coverage by *Reuters* . Her predecessor, Martínez Carbonell, had held the post since 2023, overseeing the EEAS during a period marked by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the bloc’s response to global migration crises. Ollongren’s start date of 1 September aligns with the traditional autumn transition in EU institutions, allowing for a structured handover.
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