Kaja Kallas: Europe cannot be a neutral mediator between Russia and Ukraine
Kaja Kallas. EPA-Eltos photo.
Published: 2026 May 28 19:13:00, Rasa Strimaitytė, Elta
In seeking an end to Russia's war in Ukraine, the European Union (EU), according to the bloc's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, will never be able to assume the classic role of mediator.
It is clear that the aim of the negotiations is to help Ukraine, Kallas said at a press conference after the EU foreign ministers' meeting in the port city of Limassol, Cyprus.
However, Europe can never be a neutral mediator between Russia and Ukraine. Because Europe is on Ukraine's side and also defends its own security interests, Kallas noted.
She spoke as discussions arose about whether the EU should become more involved in diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, while US President Donald Trump's peace initiative has so far yielded no results.
Some countries, such as Austria, are demanding the appointment of an EU chief negotiator.
But Kallas currently rejects this and first wants to clarify strategic issues.
The former Estonian prime minister also noted that any EU efforts must simultaneously complement US efforts.
"We do not intend to replace the United States," she said.
