On 12 November, the Foreign Affairs Committee questioned Kaja Kallas, the Estonian candidate for High Representative/Vice-President for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. In her introductory statement, Kaja Kallas pledged to strengthen the EU’s world position and safeguard its geopolitical and economic security. She also emphasised the need for increased investment in defence and highlighted the importance of cooperation with international partners.
Aid for Ukraine, China’s threat to world order
The Vice President-designate warned that Russia, Iran, North Korea, and, more covertly, China aim to alter the rules-based world order. She called on the EU to address this threat alongside its closest allies and partners “without losing an inch of who we are.”
Regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine, she emphasised that Ukraine’s victory is a priority for the EU, which must provide all necessary military, financial, and humanitarian aid.
“The victory of Ukraine is a priority for us all. The situation on the battlefield is difficult. And that’s why we must keep working every day and for as long as it takes, with as much military, financial and humanitarian help as needed,” she said.
Ms Kallas advocated for Ukraine’s accession to the EU, emphasising that enlargement to neighbouring countries is a geostrategic investment beneficial to the EU. “In the next five years, we need to see clear results in this area,” she stated.
On the topic of migration, Ms. Kallas asserted that to protect freedom of movement, the EU must secure its external borders. This involves preventing loss of life and effectively addressing the root causes of migration.
She noted that China is increasingly becoming a competitor and a systemic rival. “Our dependency towards China in key sectors is a real vulnerability. We need to de-risk,” she emphasised.
In terms of defence policy, Ms Kallas warned that Russia, North Korea, and Iran are producing more military equipment and ammunition than the Euro-Atlantic community.
She called for Europe to invest more in defence and take on greater responsibility, stressing that the transatlantic partnership has historically brought prosperity and security to both sides of the Atlantic. “As with all relationships, we must build on what works best for both parties,” she stated.
“We need to invest more in defence and shoulder more responsibility. We must also improve our readiness to face new security challenges,” highlighted Kallas.
New US administration, defence, sanctions
MEPs questioned Ms Kallas about how she would engage with the incoming US administration to ensure continued support for Ukraine. She responded that, if confirmed, she would seek connections with the new American leadership.
“The EU and United States are stronger and safer when we work together. The transatlantic relationship is the biggest economic and security partnership in the world. As with all partnerships, they must be built on what works best for both sides. This will not change,” Kallas said.
She also emphasised that the United States cannot focus solely on China at the expense of Ukraine. She mentioned that China should “feel a cost” for supporting Russia’s aggression in the war.
Referring to Europe’s significant underinvestment in defence, she asserted that enhancing Europe’s defence capabilities would serve as a strong deterrent, stating, “It would tell Russia not to even think about it because we will fight back.”
MEPs inquired about the EU’s sanctions policy and its relationship with NATO. Ms Kallas firmly believed that the EU does not need independent military powers separate from NATO, explaining that the EU’s role should be to bolster the defence industry and produce ammunition, with NATO remaining the leading military organisation.
When asked whether the EU should make its sanctions on Russia permanent rather than renewing them every six months, Ms Kallas supported the idea while acknowledging that there is currently no unity among Council members on this issue.
Regarding the Israel and Palestine situation, Ms Kallas stated that the EU would continue to advocate for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the provision of humanitarian aid while maintaining its strong commitment to working towards a long-term two-state solution.
The committee chair and political group coordinators met immediately after the hearing to evaluate the Commissioner-designate. The Conference of Presidents, including EP President Roberta Metsola and political group chairs, will finalise the assessment and conclude the hearings on 21 November. Once the hearings are closed, evaluation letters will be published. MEPs are scheduled to elect the entire College of Commissioners during the plenary session in Strasbourg from 25 November to 28.
