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 specific measures does Prime Minister Kaja Kallas suggest the EU implement to increase sanctions on China for its support of Russia?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas, Estonian Prime Minister and Advocate for Strong EU Sanctions on China**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Prime Minister Kallas. Recently, during your time in the EU Parliament, you asserted that China must face higher costs for its support of Russia’s war efforts. Can you elaborate on why you believe this is crucial?
**Kaja Kallas:** Thank you for having me. The reality we face is that without China’s support—be it through providing materials or other forms of assistance—Russia would struggle to maintain its current military capabilities in Ukraine. This backing creates a direct link between China and Russia’s continued aggression. As a community, we must hold allies accountable; thus, implementing stricter sanctions on China is imperative to diminish its ability to assist Russia.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that a quick peace in Ukraine could lead to undesirable outcomes, such as ceding territory to Russia. Can you explain why a sustainable peace is more desirable?
**Kaja Kallas:** A sustainable peace breathes life into the idea of long-term stability and avoids repeating past mistakes. We’ve seen how previous agreements with Russia have faltered; history teaches us that giving in to aggressors does not yield security. Instead, we need to come together as a united front against such actions, ensuring we do not embolden other aggressors around the world.
**Interviewer:** You’ve emphasized the importance of EU unity on this front. How do you propose the EU’s 27 member states can better align their foreign policy strategies regarding China and Russia?
**Kaja Kallas:** It’s essential that we cultivate a strong consensus among member states despite our differing perspectives. This can only be achieved through open dialog and commitment to shared values of security and integrity. By presenting a united stance, we amplify our geopolitical influence, which is crucial given the volatile global landscape.
**Interviewer:** as the global situation evolves, what message do you hope EU policymakers take away regarding the relationship with China?
**Kaja Kallas:** My message is clear: we cannot afford complacency when it comes to actions that threaten global peace. The partnership between Russia and China is a significant concern. It is time for the EU to reconsider its strategies and hold nations accountable for their support of aggression, which undermines the very foundations of international law and order.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Prime Minister Kallas. As these discussions unfold, how do you think public sentiment will shape the EU’s actions?
**Kaja Kallas:** Public opinion is vital. As citizens engage with these issues, I hope they advocate for a principled stance against aggression. We must all recognize the broader implications of allowing any nation, including China, to support conflict. It’s a pivotal moment for the EU to define its role on the world stage, and active community engagement will be crucial.
**Debate Question for Readers:** Do you agree with Prime Minister Kallas that China must face penalties for supporting Russia? How should the EU balance its economic relations with China while addressing security concerns? Let us know your thoughts!
