Russia increases pressure on Ukraine with 'deadliest attacks': EU foreign policy chief

ISTANBUL

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Monday that Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine, delivering the "deadliest" strikes seen so far, and stressed the need for stronger international pressure on Moscow.

"These attacks on Kyiv are totally appalling," Kallas told reporters ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels.

"It is clear that Russia has increased its pressure on Ukraine. It is really bombing Ukraine, and we have seen the deadliest attacks," she said.

Kallas emphasized that the EU stands ready to act to push Russia toward peace.

"It is up to us to put the pressure on Russia so that it would also want peace," she said.

"We are ready to do it on the European side, and we are hoping that other international partners will follow suit," she added.

While the meeting primarily focuses on development matters, including the impacts of the US’ withdrawal from development aid, Kallas stressed that Ukraine remains a critical issue for EU ministers.

She also outlined the council’s broader agenda, which includes addressing strategic priorities in the EU’s neighborhood, defending human rights, strengthening media freedom, and advancing preparations for the EU-Africa Summit.

Referring to recent talks with African partners, Kallas said: "There were a lot of exchanges of views, and I think we definitely need to build on that cooperation."

She also highlighted ongoing discussions about the next Multiannual Financial Framework and the need for more effective external action.

"We will discuss how we can do it better so that it is really modernized and more cost-effective because the funds are always limited," Kallas noted.