EU Cannot Be Neutral Mediator Between Russia and Ukraine, Says Kallas

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas rejected the idea that the bloc could serve as a neutral mediator between Russia and Ukraine. Her statement came in response to calls from some EU member states, including Austria, for the appointment of a chief EU negotiator to facilitate dialogue between the warring parties. Kallas's position reflects the EU's stance as a strong supporter of Ukraine since Russia's invasion in February 2022, having provided billions of euros in military and financial aid while imposing extensive sanctions on Moscow. The debate over EU mediation highlights divisions within the bloc about how actively to pursue diplomatic solutions to the conflict.