Kallas: No Ukraine deal can work without Kyiv’s consent

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas insists that any negotiations on Ukraine must involve Kyiv and European leaders, warning that deals made without them will not work. She also raised concerns over Russian influence in the U.S. and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to military aid to Ukraine.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasized on Monday that any negotiations regarding Ukraine must involve both Kyiv and European leaders, asserting that "no deal without Ukraine and Europe can work."

Speaking ahead of the EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, Kallas rejected the idea that discussions between Russia and other parties could determine Ukraine’s future without its participation.

"You can discuss whatever you want with Putin, but if it comes to Europe or Ukraine, then Ukraine and Europe also have to agree to this deal," she said.

"If you look at the messages that come from the United States, then it's clear that the Russian narrative is very strongly represented," she noted, stressing the need for Europe to remain united in its approach to Washington.

Regarding military assistance, she reaffirmed the EU’s dedication to supporting Ukraine, stating: "If Ukraine is standing firm, then any plan without Ukraine or Europe will simply not work."

She also mentioned ongoing discussions on a new Defense Initiative aimed at supplying Ukraine with ammunition and military capabilities in the near term.

The EU foreign ministers were also set to deliberate on the 16th sanctions package against Russia, which includes measures targeting gaming consoles used in sanctions evasion and shadow fleets transporting Russian oil.

Kallas expressed optimism about the implementation of these new restrictions.

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