Baerbock Defends UN Role Amid Criticism Over Sidelining Diplomat

Annalena Baerbock asserts Germany's leadership during a pivotal year for the UN, as questions persist over sidelining Helga Schmid for the General Assembly presidency.

Annalena Baerbock is set to assume the presidency of the UN General Assembly in September, replacing Helga Schmid, who had been preparing for the role for months.
Baerbock defended her nomination as a collective decision by the German government, emphasizing the need for strong leadership during a critical year for selecting a new UN Secretary-General.
Critics argue that sidelining Schmid undermines feminist foreign policy principles and raises concerns about Baerbock's past controversial statements, such as calling Xi Jinping a dictator.
Baerbock highlighted her advocacy for a European Defense Union and a stronger role for Europe in defending the rule-based world order amidst global tensions.
Speculation continues about Baerbock's successor as Foreign Minister, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius mentioned as a potential candidate.