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 issues, 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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What implications does Prime Minister Kaja Kallas believe China’s support for Russia has for European security and stability?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister of Estonia**
**Host:** Welcome, Prime Minister Kallas. Thank you for joining us. Recently, you stated in the EU Parliament that China must face a higher price for its support of Russia. Can you explain why you believe this is crucial for Europe?
**Kallas:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital for the EU to recognize the significant role China plays in enabling Russia’s war efforts. Their supply of materials is essential for Russia to maintain its military strength. If we do not hold China accountable, we are effectively allowing them to support an aggressor without consequences, which could have long-term implications for global stability.
**Host:** Some critics argue that focusing on China might divert attention from the core issues at hand in Ukraine. How do you respond to that perspective?
**Kallas:** I understand those concerns, but we must see the connections between these issues. Allowing China to operate without repercussions sends a message to other aggressors that they can act with impunity. We need a united front to address both the immediate crisis in Ukraine and the broader geopolitical landscape, including the role of China.
**Host:** You’ve also cautioned against a quick peace settlement in Ukraine, especially with the incoming U.S. administration. Could you elaborate on what you mean by “a difference between peace and peace”?
**Kallas:** Absolutely. It’s crucial to differentiate between a superficial peace that simply cedes territory to Russia and a sustainable peace that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty. Quick fixes can lead to future conflicts. History has shown us that Russia does not adhere to agreements, so any peace must ensure long-term security for Ukraine and the region.
**Host:** You’ve emphasized the importance of unity among EU member states. What challenges do you see in achieving that consensus?
**Kallas:** The EU is composed of 27 member states, each with its own perspective and interests, which can complicate decision-making. However, given the pressing issues we face—such as security and economic stability—it’s crucial that we present a united front. The world is indeed “on fire,” and we must stick together to exert our collective geopolitical weight.
**Host:** Thank you, Prime Minister Kallas, for sharing your insights. Before we conclude, how do you envision the balance of power shifting in the coming years?
**Kallas:** We are at a significant crossroads. The EU must strengthen its resolve and prioritize long-term strategies to address both the Russian aggression and the role of other global powers like China. This is not just about the current conflict; it’s about shaping a future where respect for sovereignty and international law are upheld.
**Host:** A thought-provoking discussion, indeed. Let’s turn to our audience now. What do you think Europe’s response should be to China’s support for Russia? Should we alter our strategies based on the input from political leaders like Prime Minister Kallas, or do you believe a different approach is needed? Engage with us and share your thoughts!
