Russia has attacked at least 19 countries over the centuries – Kaya Kallas
Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated during a brief interview with RBC that over the past 100 years Russia has attacked at least 19 countries, not counting African states. According to her, some countries have been attacked three or four times, and none of them has ever attacked Russia.
The interview took place on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council’s away day in Kyiv. Before it began, European ministers visited Bucha, which was liberated four years ago.
On negotiations and the Donbas
Kallas noted that the issue of the war is not limited to territory alone.
“If someone says, ‘Why don’t you just give up this territory?’… People also live in these territories. And what we saw in Bucha is what will happen to those people in the occupied territories,” she said.
She emphasised that a quick deal in the event of concessions does not mean lasting peace.
"You know, if the victim gave in, you would get a quick deal. But that is not lasting peace, because the aggressor’s appetite will only grow."
According to her, Donbas is not Russia’s ultimate goal if it is obtained without resistance.
The position of the US and Europe
Kallas noted that the issue of negotiations had been discussed with the American side, which sees itself as a mediator.
She added that the European approach is not to accept Russia’s demands.
"We are constantly reminded that Russia started this war. If they are, in a sense, rewarded for this, then we will see more of the same."
Impact of the situation in the Middle East
According to Kallas, rising oil prices may temporarily ease the situation for Russia, but this is not a long-term solution.
She also noted that the war in Ukraine and the situation surrounding Iran are linked.
"If you’re worried about Iran, you should be worried about Russia too."
On security and NATO
Kallas emphasised that attention to Ukraine must not wane due to events in the Middle East.
She noted that Russia could take advantage of this shift in focus, but European countries do not intend to allow this to happen.
On support for Ukraine and the EU
According to her, over the past year, financial support for Ukraine has come mainly from Europe, and this assistance will continue.
She also emphasised the importance of European Union enlargement, describing it as a geopolitical choice.
“We are stronger when we are together; we are equal geopolitical forces if we work together. And Ukraine is truly fundamental to this.”
