Kallas Calls On Europe To Respond To Russian Threats By Increasing Support For Ukraine

European diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas warned against succumbing to Russian intimidation and called for Europe to bolster its support for Ukraine. The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy made her remarks while addressing journalists ahead of the European Arctic Summit in Finland. Kallas emphasized that Russia's message is intended to coerce Western nations into refraining from backing Ukraine and not visiting the country to demonstrate solidarity.

She firmly believes that Europe must prove its unwavering commitment to Ukraine, despite Russia's broader objectives. Kallas highlighted that Russia is reactivating Soviet-era bases in the Arctic and carrying out missile tests, underscoring that climate change is creating new maritime routes in the region, which is heightening geopolitical competition.

In response, the EU is developing a new defense strategy set to be unveiled in October. The diplomat also cautioned that Russia's 'shadow fleet' in European waters poses a significant environmental threat. Kallas anticipates that the EU's new Arctic strategy, which will be presented in October, will emphasize security as a crucial component of Europe's security framework.

The strategy will include specific initiatives, although she refrained from disclosing details until finalizing the proposals. Earlier, Kallas stressed the need for accelerated defense preparations in Europe due to the escalating threats from Russia.