EU risks losing credibility over Gaza stance, warns Kallas
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has cautioned that the bloc’s credibility is at stake due to its divisions on the Middle East, particularly the ongoing war in Gaza.
Speaking at the Bled Strategic Forum in Slovenia on Monday, Kallas noted that EU member states remain split over their approach to the conflict, unlike the unified stance reached on Ukraine.
“I’m pushing very hard, because I also feel the EU’s credibility is at risk—we must be unified in this response,” she said.
Kallas rejected suggestions that the EU has been passive, pointing out that the bloc is among the largest providers of humanitarian aid and the strongest supporter of the Palestinian Authority. However, she admitted that ongoing suffering in Gaza means more must be done.
“We are doing as much as we can, but it’s not enough, because this humanitarian catastrophe continues. I’m working with member states to reach a common position,” she stressed.
Turning to Ukraine, Kallas said the EU is preparing its 19th sanctions package against Russia, insisting sanctions remain the only measure President Vladimir Putin “takes seriously.” She accused Moscow of “mocking” peace efforts and warned that no signs of genuine negotiations are visible.
Kallas also criticised former US President Donald Trump for showing “patience” toward Putin. “If we all did more, we could deprive Russia of the funds to wage this war,” she added.
