Estonian Ex-President Arnold Rüütel Passes Away at 96

Arnold Rüütel, the former president of Estonia and a pivotal figure in the country’s journey to reclaim independence in 1991, has passed away at the age of 96. The announcement was made by the Estonian president’s office.

Rüütel began his political career as a Communist Party official in the late 1980s during the decline of the Soviet Union. He played a significant role in Estonia’s efforts to regain sovereignty after decades of Soviet rule. 

Serving as Estonia’s president from 2001 to 2006, Rüütel was a significant figure towards the country’s membership at the European Union and NATO in 2004, milestones that firmly established Estonia’s place in the Western alliance.

The presidential office described him as “one of the leaders of our independence,” a testament to his lasting legacy in Estonia’s history.