EU's Kallas urges stronger pressure on Moscow after deadly Kyiv strike

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas has called for tougher sanctions on Russia following its latest large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv, arguing that condemnation alone will not stop the violence.

“Words of condemnation alone will not stop attacks on Kyiv. Only sustained military support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Moscow can do that," Kallas said in a post on X.

“This week, the EU has started disbursing €6 billion under the €90 billion support loan to strengthen Kyiv’s defences.

Today, I will propose to sanction more entities supporting Russia’s military-industrial complex in response to the strikes. The more Moscow attacks civilians, the more sanctions must be imposed.

We keep raising the cost until Russia understands it cannot win.

EU staff in Kyiv are accounted for. I am deeply grateful to our colleagues on the ground, who continue their work with courage and dedication under the most difficult circumstances,” the foreign policy chief added.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed Kallas' proposal, describing it as the approach Kyiv has consistently advocated.

“Thank you, @kajakallas, for suggesting additional sanctions against Russia immediately after this strike. This is exactly the approach that we have been calling for. Strong deterrence requires proactive action.

Russia's latest massive attack on Kyiv once again proves that the Kremlin rejects peace and deliberately chooses terror. Every missile and every drone launched against civilians is another reminder that Russia understands only the language of strength.

We are grateful to the EU for advancing the Ukraine Support Loan and for its readiness to further increase pressure on Russia. Every euro invested in Ukraine's defence saves lives. Every new sanction raises the cost of Russia's aggression.

Stronger support for Ukraine and stronger pressure on Russia are the fastest path to a comprehensive and lasting peace,” Sybiha said in a post on his X account.

To note, during the night of July 2, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Kyiv using ballistic missiles and drones, killing at least 17 people.

By Vafa Guliyeva