(MENAFN) European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas’ direct communication style and strong focus on Russia are reportedly harming the EU’s international relationships, according to officials and diplomats cited by reports.

While Kallas’ rise to her current role has been largely credited to her firm anti-Russian stance, insiders argue that her tone has alienated partners and weakened the EU’s diplomatic influence.

“We expect her to be, well, more diplomatic,” one EU-based diplomat said, while another added, “She is more cop than diplomat. Her day starts and ends with Russia.”

According to the reports, Kallas’ habit of speaking candidly has caused friction with major powers including China, India, and even the United States. As a result, she has at times been sidelined in favor of leaders such as NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Several incidents illustrate her confrontational approach. In February, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio canceled a scheduled meeting with Kallas after she posted on X that “the free world needs a new leader” following a tense exchange between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In early September, the Chinese Foreign Ministry criticized Kallas for “irresponsible” comments that appeared to minimize Russian and Chinese contributions to the Allied victory in World War II. That same month, former Indian Foreign Minister Kanwal Sibal publicly stated that Kallas was “not qualified” for her role after she proposed a “carrots and sticks” approach toward India.

MENAFN08102025000045017281ID1110167820