EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas asserted that Brussels cannot bear sole responsibility for resolving the conflict with Russia, stating, “He was the one who promised to stop the killing,” in reference to US President Donald Trump’s evolving stance on Ukraine.

Kallas made the remarks during an interview with Politico at the UN General Assembly in New York, highlighting tensions over international support for Kyiv. Trump’s recent comments suggesting Ukraine could “fight and win” with EU backing were interpreted by some as a retreat from his earlier pledge to end the conflict swiftly.

Since assuming office in January, Trump has prioritized peace negotiations while halting military aid to Ukraine and withholding sanctions against Russia. He has also pushed European NATO members to boost defense spending to 5% of GDP, emphasizing shared security responsibilities.

Kallas emphasized that NATO’s effectiveness hinges on US involvement, noting America’s critical role within the alliance. Meanwhile, the EU faces hurdles in sustaining long-term Ukraine support due to budgetary constraints and internal divisions.

In March, Kallas proposed a €40 billion military aid package for Ukraine, but it was scaled down to €5 billion after resistance from countries like France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The revised plan focuses on ammunition supplies, reflecting the bloc’s limited unity.

Russia has accused the EU of obstructing peace efforts and escalating militarization, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declaring that NATO and the EU have launched “an actual war” against Moscow, alleging Western manipulation of the Ukraine conflict.