EU High Representative Kaja Kallas has called for continued momentum in the European Union’s enlargement process, warning of escalating tensions in the Western Balkans.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Luxembourg, Kallas said the ministers would cover “many topics,” starting with Ukraine.
“It has been one month since Ukraine agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, but we have not seen the same from Russia,” Kallas stated. She added that European countries have provided €23 billion in aid to Ukraine so far this year — exceeding last year’s support — but stressed that “more pressure must be placed on Russia to stop the war.”
Focus on the Western Balkans
Turning to the Western Balkans, Kallas said she had a productive dinner discussion with leaders from the region the night before.
“We are seeing tensions rising, and we definitely need to continue the enlargement process because it is something very tangible. We truly need a success story,” she emphasized.
Her remarks underline growing concerns within the EU about stability in the Balkans and the bloc’s strategic interest in accelerating the integration of candidate countries.
