• Monday, 04 November 2024

Dutch foreign minister steps down over failed Afghan evacuation

Dutch foreign minister steps down over failed Afghan evacuation
Dutch Foreign Minister Sigrid Kaag has resigned after sharp criticism from lawmakers regarding the failed evacuation of Dutch nationals and others from Afghanistan. The parliament backed a censure motion against Kaag with 78 votes in favour and 72 against after blaming her for the failed evacuation. There was a similar censure motion against Christian Democratic Defence Minister Ak Bijleveld, who decided to stay in office. Kaag was only acting minister and had only been in the post since May. A new coalition government has not yet been formed since the parliamentary elections in March. "The parliament judges that the cabinet acted irresponsibly, so I can't do anything other than accept the consequences," Kaag said. It is unclear what political consequences this step will have for the formation of a government.