Ukraine’s Future Must Include Kyiv’s Voice: EU Foreign Policy Chief

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized on Monday that any resolution concerning Ukraine must be made with Kyiv’s direct participation, declaring that “No agreement can be valid without Ukraine and Europe at the table.”

Speaking at the EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Kallas dismissed external negotiations that exclude Ukraine, reinforcing the necessity of Ukraine’s involvement in shaping its own future. She also raised concerns about increasing Russian influence on global narratives, particularly in the United States, following Donald Trump’s return to office.

Highlighting European solidarity, Kallas reiterated the EU’s steadfast commitment to military aid, including bolstering Ukraine’s defense systems through a newly proposed Defense Initiative.

The ministers also discussed imposing stricter sanctions on Russia, focusing on trade loopholes such as gaming consoles used for sanctions evasion and maritime routes facilitating Russian oil exports. Kallas expressed optimism that these measures would effectively curb Russia’s economic maneuvering.

As the war persists, Kallas underscored the importance of securing European interests, warning that “Putin’s actions continue to threaten peace and stability,” reinforcing the urgency for decisive European action in support of Ukraine.