Arnold Ruutel: A Legacy of Leadership and Independence

Arnold Ruutel, Estonia's second president after restoring independence, has passed away at 96. A former communist leader and agriculturalist, he played a vital role in Estonia's independence from the Soviet Union and later joined the People's Union. He was President from 2001 to 2006.

Arnold Ruutel, former President of Estonia and the last communist leader of Soviet Estonia, has died at age 96. His death was announced by the office of the current Estonian President Alar Karis on Tuesday.

Ruutel's political journey began in 1977 when he served in high-ranking positions within the communist party of Soviet Estonia. By 1983, he was elected chairman of the republic's supreme council, becoming Estonia's top communist official. He was instrumental in preparing the country's declaration of independence in 1988.

After Estonia gained independence, Ruutel promoted social democratic policies and established the People's Union. He was elected president in 2001, leading Estonia into NATO and the EU. Ruutel served until 2006 and will be buried with full state honours, according to Estonian public broadcaster ERR.

(With inputs from agencies.)