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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In what ways does Kaja Kallas believe a united EU front can enhance the bloc’s influence in addressing geopolitical challenges posed by Russia and China?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas, European Union Foreign Affairs Chief**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Kaja Kallas. You’ve recently emphasized the need for China to face stronger repercussions for its support of Russia amid the ongoing conflict. Can you explain why you believe this is necessary?
**Kaja Kallas:** Absolutely. China’s supply of materials that facilitate Russia’s weapon production plays a crucial role in sustaining Russia’s military capabilities. Without this support, I believe Russia would struggle to maintain the same level of aggression in Ukraine. We need to send a clear message that enabling such actions comes with consequences.
**Interviewer:** You also mentioned the risks of pursuing a quick peace in Ukraine, especially in light of comments from the incoming U.S. President Donald Trump. Could you elaborate on your concerns?
**Kaja Kallas:** Certainly. My concern is that a rushed peace process could lead to Ukraine being forced to cede territory to Russia, which not only undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty but could also set a dangerous precedent globally. Previous agreements with Russia have shown that they can be easily disregarded. We need a sustainable peace that discourages further aggression.
**Interviewer:** You advocate for a united front within the EU member states. How critical is this unity in the current geopolitical climate?
**Kaja Kallas:** It’s absolutely essential. The geopolitical landscape is fraught with challenges, and if the EU appears divided, it weakens our influence and effectiveness. A cohesive stance is vital for our collective security and to assert our values against aggressors like Russia. As I said, “the world is on fire,” and we must stick together to navigate these turbulent times.
**Interviewer:** what message do you have for the public regarding the situation with China and Russia?
**Kaja Kallas:** I urge the public to consider the implications of complacency in international relations. Allowing aggressors to achieve their aims unchallenged sends a dangerous message that might inspire similar actions elsewhere. We need to advocate for a principled approach to foreign policy that prioritizes long-term stability and peace.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Kaja. As we look ahead, do you think there is a path toward a balanced approach in dealing with both China and Russia without compromising global security?
**Kaja Kallas:** Achieving balance will require careful diplomacy and a firm commitment to our values. It’s a complex challenge, but I believe it’s possible if we remain steadfast and work collaboratively.
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**Debate Question for Readers:** Given Kaja Kallas’s view that stronger actions should be taken against China for its support of Russia, do you believe this approach is warranted, or could it escalate tensions further? What are your thoughts on the balance between holding allies accountable while maintaining global stability?
