“We are living in very turbulent times and it is clear that there is a connection between Russia’s illegal aggression against Ukraine and the events in the Middle East,” said Kaja Kallas before the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament. She added that both conflicts are the result of the collapse of international law without accountability.
“This is not a European war. We didn’t start it, we weren’t consulted and we don’t know the real goals, that’s why the member states don’t want to get involved,” she pointed out.
She emphasized that Russia is profiting from rising energy prices and disturbances in the Strait of Hormuz, which allows it to prolong the war.
“The US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil could not have come at a worse time. Europe must reduce those profits by strengthening sanctions and dismantling the Russian ‘shadow fleet,’” she said.
Kallas criticized the delays in the EU regarding the new package of sanctions and aid to Ukraine, warning that it threatens the security of the Union.
Speaking about relations with Russia, she emphasized that goals should be clearly defined: “Peace negotiations have stalled, and the other side is practically absent. Everyone is putting pressure on Ukraine, but no one is asking Russia any questions.”
She concluded that Europe must combine diplomacy and strong economic measures, with cooperation with partners, and that European values are also its interests.
(Vijesti.ba)
