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During the European Parliament’s plenary session on 18 June in Strasbourg, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas called for increased support for Ukraine. She stressed that Ukraine is currently at the forefront of defending the whole of Europe against Russian aggression.
“The European Union is doing its part to support Ukraine. But we must do more for our own security. Ukraine is the first line of defence for Europe,” Kallas said.
Strength is the only language Russia understands
Kallas quoted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who had earlier warned that if they did not help Ukraine, the allies would have to “learn Russian”.
“We know that Russia responds only to force,” the official said. In this context, she announced the preparation of the 18th package of sanctions against Russia, aimed at weakening its military capabilities economically.
According to Kallas, the effectiveness of the sanctions is undeniable: last month alone, Russia lost $6 billion from its sovereign wealth fund, and oil revenues are falling by tens of billions.
The EU is a key partner of Ukraine
Kallas reminded that the European Union remains the largest donor of aid to Ukraine, having already provided more than €50 billion, including for military needs.
“The stronger Ukraine is on the battlefield today, the stronger it will be at the negotiating table tomorrow, when Russia is ready for dialogue,” she stressed.
Kallas’ speech was an important signal ahead of the NATO Summit in The Hague, where Allies will discuss further steps to strengthen European security and support Ukraine.
