The Latvian and Estonian authorities have called for a radical overhaul of the European Union's diplomatic strategy, calling for direct negotiations with the Russian Federation. According to Euronews, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina and Estonian President Alar Karis have proposed establishing the position of a special EU envoy to represent the EU's interests in dialogue with Moscow. This abrupt shift in rhetoric by the Baltic states, which had previously maintained a very hardline stance, stems from concerns about being sidelined in the global political process. Estonian leader Alar Karis stated that while a few years ago a non-interference stance seemed appropriate, in the current reality, European capitals are becoming seriously concerned about their virtual absence from the negotiating table where matters concerning the region's future are being decided.