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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What are the potential risks and benefits of implementing tougher measures against China in response to its support for Russia, according to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas, Estonian Prime Minister and EU Foreign Affairs Chief**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Prime Minister Kallas. You’ve recently emphasized the need for China to face greater consequences for its support of Russia in the ongoing conflict. Can you elaborate on why you believe that is crucial at this juncture?
**Kaja Kallas**: Thank you for having me. It’s clear that without China’s backing, Russia would struggle to maintain its military efforts in Ukraine. This support not only enables the continuation of the war but also undermines global stability. We must ensure that those who assist aggressors are held accountable, which is why I’m calling for tougher measures against Chinese firms involved in supplying materials that bolster Russia’s war capabilities.
**Interviewer**: You warned against the danger of a “quick peace” in Ukraine, suggesting that it could lead to ceding territory to Russia. Can you explain what you mean by ”a different kind of peace”?
**Kaja Kallas**: Absolutely. History has shown us that quick resolutions often come at a high cost, especially in agreements with Russia, which have frequently been violated. A sustainable peace must involve clear terms that do not reward aggression. If we simply acquiesce to territorial demands, it could embolden aggressors elsewhere. It’s essential to stand firm, ensuring that peace is built on respect for sovereignty and international law.
**Interviewer**: You also mentioned the importance of EU unity in these discussions. Given the diverse viewpoints among EU member states, how do you plan to foster this unity?
**Kaja Kallas**: It’s vital for all member states to recognize that the security of one is the security of all. I believe we need to work collaboratively, focusing on our shared values and goals. By standing together, we can present a formidable front that enhances our geopolitical weight and deters aggression. The world is indeed facing numerous challenges, and a united EU is our best strategy moving forward.
**Interviewer**: As we consider the complexities of this geopolitical situation and the pressing need for a response, let’s shift the conversation to our readers. Do you think the EU’s approach to China and Russia is stringent enough, or is there a risk of exacerbating tensions? How should the EU balance its economic ties with China against the pressing need for geopolitical stability?
**Kaja Kallas**: That’s a crucial question. It’s a delicate balance—ensuring we protect our values and security while managing our relationships economically. The conversation is ongoing, and I encourage readers to weigh in on what they think the EU’s next steps should be as we navigate these challenging waters.
