German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated in an interview that she will not be seeking the post of Germany’s leader in the next national election. Baerbock, who ran as the Green party’s candidate in the 2021 national election and became the foreign minister in the current coalition government, expressed her intention to focus on diplomacy during a time of multiple crises.

The next national election in Germany is anticipated to take place in the fall of 2025. Baerbock, speaking from the NATO summit in Washington in an interview with CNN, acknowledged the significantly changed global landscape since the previous election, citing events such as the Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, and the importance of increased diplomacy.

Baerbock emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation and trust-building in her role as foreign minister, indicating that her political duty lies in dedication to her current position rather than pursuing the German chancellorship. She affirmed commitment to supporting her party during election times and emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts with global and European partners.

Speculation had circled about Baerbock potentially running for chancellor again in the upcoming election, while Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck is also viewed as a potential candidate. However, the feasibility of another Green party attempt for the chancellery remains uncertain amidst declining popularity for the current coalition government and the Green party itself.

In the recent European Parliament election, the Green party attained fourth place with 11.9% of the vote, following the Union and the Alternative for Germany. Baerbock’s decision not to seek the position of Germany’s leader in the next election reflects her focus on diplomatic efforts and addressing the multifaceted challenges faced globally.