Estonian Envoy Accused of Urging President Karis to Soften Ukraine Remarks During Kazakhstan Visit

Estonian media say Ambassador Jaap Ora persuaded President Alar Karis to significantly soften references to Ukraine in his official speech during a visit to Kazakhstan, Orda.kz reports.

Karis traveled to Kazakhstan on November 17–18. Three weeks later, Estonian outlets reported a diplomatic dispute that may ultimately cost Ora his position.

According to Err.ee, the ambassador advised Karis and his foreign policy adviser, Margus Kolge, to tone down their messaging on Ukraine during a dinner, ensuring that other members of the delegation could hear the discussion.

According to a report by Estonian news outlet Eesti Ekspress on Tuesday that Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Jaap Ora had suggested at the dinner table that President Karis and his foreign policy advisor Margus Kolga soften their tone on Ukraine, so that other members of the delegation sitting at the table would also hear the discussion,
 the publication claims.

Of course, the current geopolitical situation is far from stable, but we must work together to address and overcome emerging challenges,
 Karis said.

Err.ee also cites a comment from Estonia’s Foreign Ministry suggesting Ora will leave his post next year in order to ease tensions.

There is currently no official confirmation. The Estonian MFA and the embassy websites contain no such announcement. When contacted by Orda.kz, the embassy’s press service declined to comment, and the ambassador’s Instagram page likewise does not indicate a resignation.

Original Author: Igor Ulitin