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 can citizens influence EU foreign policy decisions regarding China’s support for Russia as discussed in the interview with Kaja Kallas?
**Interview with EU Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Commissioner Kallas. You’ve recently emphasized that China must pay a higher price for supplying Russia with materials that facilitate their military efforts. Can you elaborate on why you see this as essential for Europe’s security?
**Kaja Kallas:** Absolutely. China’s support for Russia significantly bolsters their military capabilities, allowing them to sustain their war efforts more effectively. If we don’t hold China accountable for enabling Russia, we undermine our own position in ensuring security and stability in Europe.
**Interviewer:** In your statements, you warned against a quick peace in Ukraine, especially in light of incoming US leadership. What dangers do you foresee in pursuing a rapid resolution?
**Kaja Kallas:** Quick peace often sacrifices long-term stability for the sake of short-term relief. History has shown that peace agreements with Russia can be broken easily. A hasty resolution might lead to Ukraine having to concede territory, which only fuels future aggression. We need a sustainable peace that prevents further conflict.
**Interviewer:** You’ve called for greater unity among EU member states. What specific steps do you think are necessary to achieve this, given the varying opinions within the Union?
**Kaja Kallas:** We must prioritize our common objectives and be clear about the challenges we face. Diplomatic dialog is critical, but we also need to cultivate a willingness to act decisively in defense of our values. Only through solidarity can the EU enhance its geopolitical weight and respond effectively to global challenges.
**Interviewer:** As you navigate these complex issues, what message do you hope resonates with the public and your counterparts within the EU?
**Kaja Kallas:** The world is facing significant instability, and we cannot afford to appear divided or indecisive. It is crucial for us to remain steadfast in our commitments to support Ukraine and present a united front against aggression. If we don’t stand together and defend our principles, we risk encouraging aggressors worldwide.
**Interviewer:** In light of your views on China’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war and the need for EU unity, how do you think the public should respond to these developments? Is there a role for citizen engagement in shaping policy?
**Kaja Kallas:** Absolutely. Public engagement is vital. It’s essential for citizens to understand the stakes involved and hold their leaders accountable. Discussions and debates can foster a more informed and active populace, which in turn can influence policy decisions in a way that reflects their values and priorities.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Commissioner Kallas, for sharing your insights.
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**Debate Question for Readers:** As the EU contemplates its legal and economic stance against Chinese support for Russia, what responsibility do you believe citizens hold in influencing foreign policy? Should public sentiment drive tougher actions against countries perceived as aggressors, or should pragmatic considerations take precedence?