EU's Kallas accuses US of adopting 'Russian narrative'

The foreign policy chief of the bloc intends to “support Ukraine right now more than ever” in light of ongoing discussions between Moscow and Washington. Read Full Article at RT.com

EU's Kallas accuses US of adopting 'Russian narrative'
The bloc’s foreign policy chief intends to “support Ukraine right now more than ever” amidst the ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Washington.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated on Monday that Washington has succumbed to “Russia’s narrative.” This comment comes as recent attempts are made by the US and Russia to address the conflict.

Kallas pointed out, “If [we] look at the messages that come from the US, then it is clear that the Russian narrative is there, very strongly represented,” while emphasizing the bloc's commitment to Ukraine.

Kallas took on her role in Brussels as the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy in December 2022, succeeding Spain’s Josep Borrell.

A noted advocate for a robust foreign policy, she previously called for an end to “all business with Russia must stop” during her tenure as Estonia’s prime minister in 2023. Kallas faced calls for her resignation after it was revealed that her husband owned a 25% stake in a logistics company operating in the sanctioned country.

Since the conflict in Ukraine escalated in February 2022, the EU and the US have imposed several rounds of sanctions aimed at isolating Russia. These measures have included disconnecting Russia from the Western financial system, halting nearly all trade and energy relations, and freezing the country's foreign reserves, an action the Kremlin has condemned as “theft.”

On the anniversary of the Russian military operation against Ukraine, the EU announced its 16th package of restrictions related to Ukraine on Monday.

In the meantime, following his inauguration in January, US President Donald Trump altered Washington’s approach to Ukraine. He recently stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is accountable for the escalation of the conflict and suggested that Zelensky's attendance at discussions with Russia is unnecessary.

Moreover, reports indicate that US representatives to the G7 and the UN have advocated for more cautious wording in official communications, proposing the term “Ukraine conflict” instead of “Russia’s war of aggression.”

Last week, a significant meeting took place in Riyadh between Russian and US officials, marking the first dialogue in three years. This dialogue has sparked backlash from within the EU, with member states alleging that the White House has re-engaged with the Kremlin without prior consultation, sidelining Brussels in the negotiations.

Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News