Kaja Kallas, the Prime Minister of Estonia, warned Europe that it should not view Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, as a mediator. In an interview, she stressed that Europe should not take on the role of mediator and must continue to support Ukraine.
Concerns About Europe's Mediating Role
Estonia, which is one of the countries close to Russia and shares a border with it, faces multiple challenges from Moscow. Kallas said: "You should not be trying to appease a dictator." She stated that Europe should not take on the mediating role as this could weaken Europe's position against Putin.
In recent months, concerns about the possibility of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, away from Europe's interests, have increased. Some European leaders, including Alexander Stubb, the President of Finland, and Jonas Gahr Støre, the Prime Minister of Norway, have discussed the situation in Ukraine with Putin, which has sparked new debates in Brussels and national capitals about Europe's need to establish a direct line of communication with the Kremlin.
Economic Measures Against Russia
The Estonian Prime Minister, referring to Europe's efforts to impose economic sanctions on Russia, said: "For once, Europe has a plan that really works." She emphasized that mediation means lowering standards for Russia, especially regarding sanctions. Kallas stated that Europe must support Ukraine, adding: "You cannot have two roles. One role is to support Ukraine and pressure Russia, and the other role is to try to mediate."
Kallas also asserted that Putin must understand that Europe is strong and acts united. She said: "This is a strong message to Putin that we have one voice."
Meanwhile, U.S. officials will meet with representatives from Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi next week. This negotiation will be the first face-to-face meeting since February. Kallas stated that Europeans appreciate the Trump administration's efforts to create a peace agreement, but there must be significant pressure on Russia.
She also referred to recent changes in the U.S. Congress and said these developments might turn out to be beneficial for Ukraine and Europe. Kallas noted: "Elections have consequences, and this is a positive aspect of democracy that there should be balance and control."
Estonia, along with Poland and Sweden, is advancing efforts to tighten visa regulations for Russians. These measures include banning former Russian military personnel from entering the European Union. Officials believe that tourist visas allow Russian agents to easily enter Europe and conduct hybrid warfare operations.
Kallas emphasized that Europe has no time to lose and must take immediate action in this regard. She said: "You should not allow such individuals to move around Europe, so restrict the visas."
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