Kallas warns Russia must make concessions to prevent future wars

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has warned that without concrete concessions from Russia, such as limiting its military forces or curbing its defence budget, new conflicts could erupt elsewhere, even if Ukraine receives security guarantees.

In an interview with Italian daily Corriere della Sera on Friday, Kallas said that a sustainable peace in Ukraine cannot be achieved unless Russia changes its behaviour and accepts real limitations on its military capabilities. “The problem for peace is Russia. Even if Ukraine received security guarantees, without concessions from Russia, there could be other wars, perhaps not in Ukraine but elsewhere,” she said.

The EU official welcomed renewed diplomatic momentum towards peace, including efforts by the US administration, but stressed that Russia continues to show no “genuine willingness” to halt the war, citing ongoing attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.

Kallas said that a ceasefire must be the first step towards any credible agreement and that preventing future conflicts requires ensuring that Russia is no longer able to launch new wars. “For sustainable peace, we must ensure that Russia cannot attack again. Concessions are needed from Russia, whether it means limiting their army or curbing their military budget,” she added.

She reiterated the EU’s firm stance that there should be “no territorial concessions and no recognition of the occupation of Ukrainian land,” emphasising that borders cannot be changed by force.

Addressing Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU by 2027, Kallas said the process remains merit-based and determined by member states, but acknowledged that US support could help overcome political blockages within the bloc. “This proposal is a positive sign for the country blocking Ukraine’s progress. The US push could persuade them to lift their veto,” she said.

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