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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How could China’s continued support for Russia impact global security and future international relations according to Kallas?
**Interview with Kersti Kallas: The EU’s Stance on China’s Role in the Ukraine War**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Kersti. Your recent statements in the EU Parliament about China’s involvement in supplying Russia with weapons have stirred quite a discussion. You mentioned that “China must pay a higher price for supplying Russia.” Can you elaborate on what specific actions you believe the EU should take?
**Kersti Kallas:** Certainly. China has been a crucial supplier of materials that enable Russia to sustain its military operations in Ukraine. I believe the EU should consider a multi-faceted approach, including imposing stricter sanctions on Chinese companies involved in arms production and enhancing our coordination with our international partners to restrict these supplies. It’s essential that we send a clear message that enabling aggression will not go unnoticed.
**Interviewer:** You argued that without China’s support, Russia could not sustain its war efforts. How do you assess the long-term implications of this relationship for global security?
**Kersti Kallas:** The implications are significant. If China continues to support Russia, it not only prolongs the conflict but also sends a dangerous precedent that aggressors can rely on external support to pursue their goals. We risk encouraging similar behavior from other nations if we allow this situation to persist. It’s imperative that we work together with the global community to hold these nations accountable.
**Interviewer:** You also warned against a “quick peace” in Ukraine, echoing concerns around potential territorial concessions. How do you propose the EU can work towards a sustainable resolution instead?
**Kersti Kallas:** A sustainable peace means acknowledging the realities of the conflict. We must ensure that any resolution respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Quick fixes that compromise Ukraine’s position will only sow the seeds for future conflicts. Our approach should be to support Ukraine militarily and diplomatically until a fair and lasting peace can be achieved.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be a consensus among EU member states about supporting Ukraine. However, how do you propose to reconcile the diverse opinions within the EU to achieve a united front?
**Kersti Kallas:** Unity is vital, especially in these tumultuous times. While member states may have varying views, we must focus on our common values and shared interests. Regular consultations and transparent discussions can help bridge differences, ensuring that we present a coherent and strong stance globally. The world truly is at a crossroads, and it is essential that we stand together.
**Interviewer:** As we discuss these critical issues, what do you want our readers to ponder? Should the EU take more stringent actions against China, or do you think there’s a risk in escalating tensions?
**Kersti Kallas:** I encourage readers to think critically about the implications of our choices. Is it more important to prioritize immediate economic ties with China, or should we stand firmly against actions that undermine global peace and security? It’s a nuanced debate, but one that must be had openly. What cost are we willing to accept for our values and the sovereignty of nations like Ukraine?
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Kersti. Your perspective on these pressing issues is invaluable, and we look forward to seeing how the EU navigates these challenges ahead.
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What do you think about Kallas’s proposals? Do you believe the EU should escalate its response to China’s support for Russia, or could such actions provoke further conflict? Share your thoughts below!
