The resignation of Tobias Billström as Sweden's Foreign Minister has sparked a power struggle within the Moderate Party.

Key figures are maneuvering to influence the selection of his successor, aiming to avoid empowering future rivals to Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.

Among the frontrunners for the position are current ministers Maria Malmer Stenergard and Johan Forssell, with other notable names like Tomas Tobé and Carl Bildt also in the mix.

The new foreign minister will face immediate challenges, including a high-level meeting in Ankara concerning Sweden's NATO accession.

This internal contest highlights the strategic importance of the foreign minister role, especially as Sweden navigates complex international relations and security issues.