Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, emphasized the need for increased support for Ukraine during a statement made on Monday, prior to a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels. This comes as the EU prepares to enforce additional sanctions against Russia amidst a series of discussions planned in Brussels, Kyiv, and Washington this week. The unanticipated decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to engage in talks with Russia has left European officials caught off guard, sidelining both Ukraine and Europe. “We must bolster our support for Ukraine now more than ever,” Kallas asserted. The ministers reached an agreement on a 16th package of sanctions against Russia, which comprises a prohibition on primary aluminum imports, restrictions on gaming console sales, and the identification of owners and operators of 74 shadow fleet vessels that are being used to bypass sanctions. At the same time, several EU leaders and ministers will be in Kyiv to show solidarity with Ukraine as they observe the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, while leaders from France and Britain are heading to the U.S. to meet with Trump. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the EU Commission, announced that Ukraine will receive a new payment of 3.5 billion euros ($3.68 billion) from the European Union in March. She also mentioned that Ukraine will benefit from EU initiatives aimed at enhancing European arms production and defense capabilities. Additionally, Kallas indicated her plans to visit the United States on Tuesday for discussions with Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding EU-U.S. relations. Discussions and relations between the United States and Russia regarding the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine.
