Ilves: but I will not start engaging in active party politics in Volt.

Former President Ilves Joins Volt Europa but Will Not Engage in Active Party Politics

Former Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves has joined the pan-European political movement Volt Europa. In an interview with ERR, Ilves confirmed that his contribution will mainly be on an ideological level – through writing articles and giving speeches – and that he does not intend to actively participate in party politics or run in any elections.

According to Ilves, his decision to join Volt was driven by a serious concern for the future of Europe, especially regarding the security situation. He referred to his earlier statements, emphasizing that the situation has become significantly more serious.

"When I look at who has taken a comprehensive stance, I saw Volt. I looked, I read, I thought, that compared to other political forces, it is much closer to what we unfortunately need right now," Ilves explained his decision. He added that Volt appears to be a party that deals with issues that have been important to him throughout his life.

Although Volt's Estonian branch has publicly supported the creation of a common European army, Ilves noted that this is more of a future issue. In his opinion, it is currently more important to focus on defending Europe and the necessary reforms.

One question that arose was Ilves's potential candidacy in the future, but the former president categorically dismissed these speculations. "No, no, no," he replied to the question of a possible candidacy. According to him, his role is more about ideological contribution. "I am a pensioner who writes about security and digital issues. And I simply politically support such a party. It appeals to me, but I don't engage in party politics at all."

Volt Europa has publicly expressed its delight at Ilves's joining and has widely reported on it. Ilves himself views this positively but continues to emphasize his non-active role in party politics.

According to Ilves, he believes that Volt's influence in Europe will grow, considering the current challenges and the party's willingness to address them. He pointed out that Volt seems to be more willing than other parties to deal with the problems that he believes are most important for Europe.

During the interview, Ilves also touched upon the broader European security situation and relations with the USA. He expressed concern about the current situation but still sees some positive signs of Europe pulling itself together, especially the increase in defense spending in the Nordic and Baltic countries and Poland. At the same time, he noted that Southern Europe still has a long way to go.

Ilves emphasized that it is currently more important to focus on strengthening Europe itself, rather than so much on sending messages to Russia. He expressed hope that even Donald Trump's actions could, in a way, benefit Europe by forcing it to restore its own strength and unity.

In conclusion, Toomas Hendrik Ilves joins Volt Europa, bringing with him a significant voice and ideological contribution, but will remain outside active party politics, continuing to focus on writing and speaking on security and digital issues.

Avaldatud 03/05/2025