In the ongoing tension between Ukraine and Russia, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the necessity of a deterrent factor to ensure the effectiveness of any ceasefire agreement. Speaking to Euronews, Kallas pointed out, "For a ceasefire to work, there must be deterrence. Putin has previously demonstrated that he does not adhere to ceasefire agreements." Her remarks came in light of a recent 30-day ceasefire proposal allegedly agreed upon by Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Kallas expressed skepticism regarding Putin's sincerity about the ceasefire, especially given the ongoing conflict. She stated, “The stronger the European Union is, the less likely the possibility of war. We need to do more for our defense. We also need to do more for Ukraine; the stronger they are on the battlefield, the stronger they will be at the negotiating table.”
During a live interview on Euronews' program Europe's Today, Kallas articulated that a divided transatlantic front would only empower Russia. She remarked, “Russia wants to see the US and Europe divided. Let’s not give them that,” reinforcing the message of unity against Russia's aggression towards Ukraine.
Kallas characterized the ongoing diplomatic efforts as “shuttle diplomacy,” indicating that while direct negotiations don't currently take place, Europe will hold a significant role once formal talks commence regarding a peace settlement. She emphasized, “There is no table where Russia and Ukraine are sitting right now. It’s a shuttle diplomacy.”
The latest discussions stem from a recent agreement between Trump and Putin, which entailed a temporary 30-day halt on attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. However, Kallas noted the implications of such an agreement, as reports indicated that Putin demanded that military aid to Ukraine from Western countries cease as a precondition.
Kallas confirmed that Trump asserted in their conversation that assistance to Ukraine was not part of the discussion, despite Putin claiming otherwise. She preferred to trust Trump's assertions over Putin's, saying, “It’s really good to see how these things are going. Trump was clear that aid to Ukraine was not discussed. Putin said it was discussed. I’d rather trust Trump on this than President Putin.”
The EU official highlighted the critical need for deterrence, reiterating her view that any ceasefire must be underpinned by a credible threat of consequences for non-compliance. “In order for the ceasefire to work there has to be deterrence. And if all guards are down, I mean Putin has shown this before, he’s not keeping to the ceasefires,” she said. Her comments underline the geopolitical complexities surrounding the conflict and the cautious approach Europe must take.
In a proactive move, Kallas proposed an unprecedented €40 billion military support package for Ukraine to reinforce its defenses. This proposal, which aims to facilitate the delivery of various military equipment, including artillery ammunition, air defense systems, missiles, drones, and fighter jets, could significantly enhance Ukraine’s capabilities. The plan, set to be debated during the upcoming EU leaders' summit, allows for contributions from non-EU countries as well, indicating a strategic shift towards a broader coalition.
The proposal also surfaces against the backdrop of speculation regarding the potential inclusion of an €18 billion financial package derived from profits acquired from frozen Russian assets within the EU, which would further bolster Ukraine's resources. Kallas articulated, “The stronger we are the less likely war is.” She reiterated a critical point: Europe needs to be better prepared for defense, which not only entails aiding Ukraine but also bolstering EU defenses constituent to long-term stability.
As the narrative continues to unfold, Kallas remains steadfast in her commitment to ensure that Europe plays a decisive role in both supporting Ukraine and standing firm against any potential threats from Russia. She stressed that any successful negotiations with Russia will require Europe’s active participation, “Of course, for any deal to work you need Europeans around the table to agree to the deal. Because the implementation of the deal needs to be in the hands of Europe.”
In summary, Kaja Kallas's remarks express a mix of cautious optimism and realism about the ongoing conflict and the dynamics of international diplomacy surrounding it. Her focus on deterrence highlights the existing challenges in finding a lasting solution to the war and emphasizes the importance of a united response to combat aggression while striving to protect European integrity and security.
