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 does Kaja Kallas perceive the risks of seeking a quick resolution to the Ukraine conflict in terms of long-term stability in the region?
**Interview with Kaja Kallas: The EU’s Stance on China and the Ukraine Conflict**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Prime Minister Kallas. You’ve made some strong statements about China’s role in supporting Russia’s military efforts. Can you elaborate on why you believe China should face increased scrutiny?
**Kaja Kallas:** Absolutely. It’s crucial for the international community to recognize that without China’s materials and support, Russia’s military capabilities would significantly falter. We can’t overlook how interdependent these relationships are when it comes to sustaining aggression. By enabling Russia’s war effort, China is complicit; thus, I argue they must bear a greater responsibility and possibly pay a higher price for their actions.
**Interviewer:** You’ve also expressed concerns about seeking a quick peace in Ukraine. What do you see as the potential dangers of this approach?
**Kaja Kallas:** Quick peace solutions often ignore the underlying issues that lead to conflict. History has shown us that agreements with Russia have frequently been broken. I fear that if we push for a hasty resolution, it might mean Ukraine would have to cede territory—a move that could set a dangerous precedent for future aggressors. Sustainable peace takes time and must address the root causes of conflict to be effective.
**Interviewer:** You mention the need for unity among EU member states. How can divergent opinions within the EU be reconciled during such a critical time?
**Kaja Kallas:** It is essential that we stand together more than ever. Divergence in opinions can weaken our geopolitical position. We must focus on shared values and goals, particularly in response to global threats. The world is indeed “on fire,” and a united front will enhance our influence and effectiveness in international affairs.
**Interviewer:** As you prepare to engage with the incoming US administration, what message do you intend to convey regarding support for Ukraine?
**Kaja Kallas:** My message will be clear: support for Ukraine must remain steadfast and adaptable to the evolving situation. Our commitment shouldn’t waver based on electoral cycles. Instead, we must ensure that Ukraine has the backing it needs, both militarily and diplomatically, to defend itself against aggression.
**Interviewer:** do you think the actions taken against China will affect the EU’s relationship with the country moving forward?
**Kaja Kallas:** The relationship will undoubtedly evolve. As we call for accountability, it’s important to balance our approach. Engaging with China on economic matters is necessary, but we must do so with an awareness of their geopolitical actions. We need to clearly communicate that supporting aggression is unacceptable.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Prime Minister Kallas. Your insights offer a crucial perspective as the EU navigates these complex issues.
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**Debate Question for Readers:**
Considering Kaja Kallas’s comments on China and Russia, do you believe the EU should impose stricter measures on China to curb its support for Russia? Or do you think a more diplomatic approach is necessary to maintain critical economic ties? Share your thoughts!
