EU Chief Accuses US of Pressuring Ukraine to Surrender
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas accused US negotiators of pressuring Ukraine to capitulate to Russia on terms favorable to Vladimir Putin.
European Union High Representative Kaja Kallas accused United States negotiators of pressuring Ukraine to surrender on terms favorable to Russian President Vladimir Putin for approximately 18 months. Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Kallas asserted that European support has been the primary factor preventing Kyiv's capitulation and described President Donald Trump's recent easing of sanctions on Russian diesel as a gift to Putin.
These accusations emerge as peace talks begin in Oslo, involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, and leaders from Norway and Finland. While Kallas argued that Europe must remain at the negotiating table to balance a White House position that has tilted toward Moscow, President Trump has criticized Zelenskyy's leadership and suggested other negotiators should represent Kyiv.
Kallas rejected claims that the EU lacks a peace strategy, citing a maximalist plan designed to counter Russian demands. She alleged that Russia has rejected multiple ceasefire initiatives regarding energy and the Black Sea, while Ukraine has agreed to them. The Kremlin expressed appreciation for U.S. mediation and indicated hopes for a meeting between Steve Witkoff and Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg.
