China must pay a higher price for supplying Russia with materials that enable them to produce weapons, Kallas maintained when she was grilled in the EU Parliament on Tuesday, according to the news agency DPA.
– Without China’s support, Russia would not be able to continue the war with the same strength, Kallas stated.
Warns against quick peace
The inquiry is part of the process of being approved. That the parliament will give the thumbs up is, however, beyond doubt after EU member states this summer stood behind the Estonian 47-year-old’s candidacy.
Kallas, who is considered a hawk on Russia, also promises to support Ukraine “as long as necessary”, as well as to build a bridge to the incoming US President Donald Trump.
At the same time, she warns against a quick peace solution in Ukraine, as Trump has said he will achieve.
It could mean that Ukraine must cede territory to Russia.
– There is a difference between peace and peace, says Kallas and points out that previous peace agreements with Russia have been broken. A quick peace could create new problems, she believes.
Must stand together
– We want a sustainable peace. Because if we just give in and tell the aggressor “ok, just take what you want”, then aggressors all over the world will be told that it can pay off, says Kallas, according to Ritzau.
She also believes that it is very important that the EU’s 27 member states, who can have rather divergent opinions on various matters, stand more united in order to give the union more geopolitical weight.
– The world is on fire, so we have to stick together, she says.
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How does Kaja Kallas plan to strengthen the EU’s position against China’s support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas, EU’s Foreign Affairs Chief**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Kaja. You’ve recently emphasized the need for China to face consequences for its support of Russia’s military efforts. Can you elaborate on why this is a priority for you and the EU?
**Kaja Kallas:** Certainly. China’s supply of materials to Russia dramatically strengthens their ability to continue the war in Ukraine. If we want to pressure Russia to cease hostilities, it’s essential to hold China accountable and limit its support for this aggression. Without that backing, Russia’s capacity to wage war is significantly reduced.
**Interviewer:** You’ve also warned against seeking a quick peace solution in Ukraine. What are the dangers you see with this approach?
**Kaja Kallas:** A quick peace may sound appealing, but it can often lead to unfavorable outcomes, such as forced territorial concessions by Ukraine. History has shown us that agreements with Russia can be temporary at best. We must pursue a sustainable peace, where negotiating from a position of strength is vital to prevent future aggressions and ensure global stability.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of unity among EU member states. How can the EU navigate the diverse opinions on foreign policy to present a unified front?
**Kaja Kallas:** It’s crucial that we acknowledge our differences but also find common ground. The current geopolitical climate requires a strong, coordinated response. By working together, sharing perspectives, and supporting each other’s interests, we can enhance the EU’s influence and effectiveness on the global stage.
**Interviewer:** Given the ongoing tensions and your advocacy for a tougher stance on China and Russia, what message do you have for the international community?
**Kaja Kallas:** The world is indeed facing multiple crises simultaneously. My message is clear: we must stand together against aggression. If we allow one aggressor to dictate terms, we set a dangerous precedent that could embolden others. Solidarity is our strength.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Kaja, for sharing your insights.
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**Debate Question for Readers:** Considering Kaja Kallas’s strong stance on holding China accountable and her warning against hasty peace solutions, do you believe that a tougher approach to China is necessary for supporting Ukraine, or do you think that engaging with China might yield better long-term peace prospects? Share your thoughts!