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 measures does Kaja Kallas propose to ensure that the EU’s approach to Ukraine supports long-term security rather than succumbing to pressures for a quick resolution?
**Interview with EU Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Chief Kallas. Recently, in the EU Parliament, you stated that “China must pay a higher price for supplying Russia with materials that enable them to produce weapons.” Can you elaborate on the implications of this stance?
**Kaja Kallas:** Absolutely. It’s crucial to recognize that without China’s support, Russia would struggle to sustain its military operations in Ukraine. This dependency means that every transaction that facilitates Russia’s war efforts has dire consequences not just for Ukraine, but for global stability. We need to hold China accountable to ensure they understand the serious consequences of their actions.
**Interviewer:** You also warned against seeking a quick peace deal in Ukraine, especially in light of statements from the incoming US administration. Why do you believe this could be problematic?
**Kaja Kallas:** The distinction between genuine peace and a superficial truce is vital. A quick resolution might imply Ukraine conceding territory, which could embolden not just Russia but other aggressors worldwide. History has shown us that rushed agreements with Russia often lead to further violations. We need to advocate for sustainable peace that ensures territorial integrity for Ukraine.
**Interviewer:** Regarding unity among EU member states, how can the EU present a stronger front on these geopolitical issues, especially with divergent views?
**Kaja Kallas:** Solidarity is essential. The EU’s collective strength lies in its ability to present a united front. Divergent opinions can complicate our actions, but we must work on building consensus. The current geopolitical climate demands that we stand together against aggressors. If we show weakness or division, we only invite more challenges.
**Interviewer:** considering the complexities of international relations and the ongoing war, what message do you want to convey to EU citizens regarding the situation?
**Kaja Kallas:** I want to assure our citizens that we are committed to supporting Ukraine for as long as necessary. The world is indeed on fire, and we must not shy away from our responsibilities. The choices we make today will shape the future of Europe and its security. We must strive for peace that upholds justice, rather than simply seeking the quickest solution.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Chief Kallas, for sharing your insights.
**Debate Question for Readers:** Given Kaja Kallas’ emphasis on the need for a unified EU front and sustainable peace in Ukraine, do you believe that prioritizing long-term stability over immediate resolutions is the best path forward? What might be the risks of rushing to peace? Share your thoughts!
