High Representative Kallas Discusses Key Issues at Foreign Affairs Council Meeting

Brussels: High Representative Kaja Kallas addressed the press upon her arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting, highlighting a packed agenda that includes discussions on Ukraine, Black Sea strategy, and the Middle East. Kallas emphasized the importance of addressing the plight of civilian detainees in occupied Ukrainian territories, alongside efforts to agree on new sanctions against Russia.According to European Union, the meeting seeks consensus on 250 new listings in response to recent Russian attacks on civilians, marking the largest number of sanctions the EU has considered to date. Discussions also include the development of a 21st sanctions package, which remains unresolved. In addition to Ukraine, the FAC is set to address security concerns in the Black Sea region, with Bulgaria and Romania coordinating efforts to protect critical infrastructure against hybrid threats.The agenda further covers a new Partnership Mission for Armenia, aimed at tackling hybrid threats and foreign interfere nce. Kallas also mentioned a working lunch with Gulf partners, focusing on securing the Strait of Hormuz and discussing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) related to regional security challenges. The EU is offering its expertise in nuclear power negotiations and dealing with proxy issues.On Middle Eastern affairs, Kallas noted the presentation of an Options Paper by the European Commission, exploring potential measures to address the complexities in the region. The FAC will evaluate the EU's stance on illegal settlements in the West Bank, with particular focus on a trade ban, amid growing concerns about the viability of a two-state solution.The council will also deliberate on the political situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the appointment of a new High Representative, and developments in Sudan. Kallas underlined the importance of sending clear messages to both mediators and those interfering in Sudan's affairs to maintain focus on the situation.Kallas addressed questions about Ukraine's government reshuffle, emphasizing the EU's commitment to working with any new administration on reforms essential for the enlargement agenda. In response to concerns about multiple Coalitions of the Willing, she advocated for operational changes to Operation ASPIDES to ensure freedom of navigation, despite Iran's refusal of external intervention in the Strait of Hormuz.The FAC will continue to monitor political transitions in Syria, offering support for inclusive governance and institutional development. The cooperation with Georgia on the Black Sea strategy remains challenging due to strained relations with the Georgian government, with the EU focusing on supporting the Georgian people.As the EU navigates complex legal opinions on trade measures and sanctions, Kallas expressed the need for Qualified Majority Voting (QMV) for trade issues. She reiterated the EU's commitment to strong sanctions against Russia, despite differing opinions among Member States, and stressed the importance of continued efforts to finalize a comprehensive 21st sanctions package.