EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday that Europe is crucial for a potential Russia-Ukraine peace deal, emphasizing the need for both Ukrainians and Europeans to be involved in implementing the agreement. Kallas’ comments come as US Vice President JD Vance delivered an excoriating speech at the conference, criticizing European democratic institutions and free speech.
Vance argued that the threat to Europe comes from within, rather than external actors like Russia or China. He also called for increased defense spending by European NATO members, which sparked mixed reactions from European officials. Finnish foreign minister Elina Valtonen defended Vance’s speech, acknowledging its relevance on boosting defense spending but criticizing its tone and lack of constructive ideas.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used the conference to emphasize Europe’s role in supporting Ukraine and preparing for potential future aggression by Russia. The summit is focused on the future of Ukraine, peace talks with Russia, and reshaping Europe’s security architecture. As negotiations begin, it remains unclear whether Europe will be involved in the discussions, despite Ukraine’s insistence that its allies are part of the process.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/15/without-europe-russia-ukraine-peace-deal-wouldnt-work-kallas.html