The EU’s top diplomat pledges unwavering support for Ukraine amidst US-Russia talks.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has accused Washington of echoing “Russia’s narrative,” amid recent efforts between the US and Russia to de-escalate the conflict.
Speaking to journalists in Brussels, Kallas stated that “If [we] look at the messages that come from the US, then it is clear that the Russian narrative is there, very strongly represented,” and emphasized the EU’s commitment to “support Ukraine right now more than ever.”
Kallas succeeded Josep Borrell as the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy in December of the previous year.
Known for her hawkish stance on foreign policy, Kallas, during her tenure as Estonian prime minister in 2023, called for an end to “all business with Russia.” She previously faced calls for her resignation following revelations that her husband held a 25% stake in a logistics firm operating in Russia, a country subject to sanctions.
Since the conflict in Ukraine intensified in February 2022, both the EU and the US have imposed numerous sanctions aimed at isolating Russia. These measures included cutting Russia off from Western financial systems, halting the majority of trade and energy relations, and freezing Moscow’s foreign reserves—a move the Kremlin has denounced as “theft.”
On Monday, the EU implemented its 16th round of restrictions related to Ukraine, coinciding with the anniversary of Russia’s military operation against Kiev in February 2022.
However, shortly after assuming office in January, US President Donald Trump shifted Washington’s approach to Ukraine. Trump recently alleged that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky bears responsibility for the conflict’s escalation and deemed Zelensky’s presence unnecessary at US-Russia meetings in Washington.
Furthermore, media reports indicate that US representatives to the G7 and the UN have advocated for more cautious wording in official statements, suggesting the use of “Ukraine conflict” instead of “Russia’s war of aggression.”
Last week, Riyadh hosted the first meeting between Russian and US officials in three years. These discussions have sparked criticism within the EU, with member states accusing the White House of re-engaging with the Kremlin without consulting them and marginalizing Brussels in the negotiation process.
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