Tensions between Iran and Ukraine have escalated after Tehran condemned what it described as a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea. According to Iran's Foreign Ministry, the strike caused an explosion aboard the vessel early Saturday, killing one sailor and injuring another. Iran called the incident an act of aggression and accused Ukraine of violating the United Nations Charter by extending the conflict beyond the battlefield. Tehran also urged the UN Security Council, the European Union, and the international community to condemn the alleged attack.
Iranian officials reiterated that the country has not directly participated in the Russia-Ukraine war and warned that it would defend its national interests under international law. Tehran also held Kyiv and its supporters responsible for any further escalation in regional tensions.
The issue was raised by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a phone conversation with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian forces had carried out strikes on logistics hubs, an oil refinery, a fuel depot, and military-linked maritime assets in the Caspian Sea, including vessels allegedly used for military cargo shipments involving Iran and a Russian warship.

Iran Condemns Alleged Ukrainian Attack on Commercial Vessel in Caspian Sea | Iran- Ukraine News

Spanish Member of the European Parliament Irene Montero slammed the European Union and the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas during a debate in the European Parliament on the peace agreement between the US and Iran over what she described as the bloc’s failure to prevent conflicts and humanitarian crises.&nbsp;Addressing Kaja Kallas, who was present during the session, Montero questioned what Europe had to celebrate on the signing of the agreement.“What does Europe celebrate? Can we celebrate that we have prevented a genocide? Have we stopped an illegal aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran? Have we broken relations with Israel? Have we stopped the occupation of Lebanon? No, we cannot celebrate any of that,” Montero said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-india-trade-deal-worth-over-6-billion-to-come-into-force-on-july-15-1781712306423">UK-India trade deal worth over $6 billion to come into force on July 15</a>&nbsp;The Podemos Member of European Parliament then turned to Kallas, saying, “What do you celebrate, Mrs. Kallas? Do you celebrate Donald Trump’s birthday? So, let’s sing to him.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happy Birthay to Trump. <a href="https://t.co/kaFpbeetyQ">pic.twitter.com/kaFpbeetyQ</a>&mdash; Irene Montero (@IreneMontero) <a href="https://x.com/IreneMontero/status/2066840315768566060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Montero then began singing, “Happy birthday to Trump. Happy birthday to Trump. Happy birthday, Mr Genocide.”&nbsp;Montero later shared the video on X with the caption “Happy Birthday to Trump,” referring to Trump’s birthday on Sunday, 14 June.&nbsp;<h2>MEP slams EU for inaction during crises</h2>&nbsp;In her remarks, Montero shot barbs at the EU for its inaction on developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Gaza, the Iran war, and Israel’s conflict with Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/had-a-great-time-on-last-visit-trump-tells-wion-recalls-massive-india-stadium-event-1781715435397">‘Had a great time on last visit,’ Trump tells WION, recalls massive India stadium event</a>&nbsp;Her remarks drew attention for their unusual theatrical effect.&nbsp;The event unfolded during a European Parliament debate on “the role of the EU in efforts for peace and stability throughout the Middle East after the announcement of the agreement between the United States and Iran.”&nbsp;<h2>Montero recently lashed out at Pope Leo XIV</h2>&nbsp;Montero had recently lashed out at Pope Leo XIV, whom she describes as the “head of a theocracy”, while accusing him of attacking the right to abortion.In a video shared on her social media, Montero maintains that Leo XIV should not have had such an institutional “megaphone” to speak in the Lower House and attack “democratically won” rights such as euthanasia or the voluntary interruption of pregnancy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/telegram-being-used-for-carrying-out-cyberattacks-circulating-child-porn-drug-trade-govt-tells-delhi-high-court-1781779733996">Telegram being used for carrying out cyberattacks, circulating child porn, drug trade: Govt tells Delhi High Court</a>&nbsp;Montero also stressed that the Pope continues “without compensating the more than 400,000 victims of paedophilia.”&nbsp;She further said that the pontiff defends peace and bats for migrants, but delivers a speech to question women’s rights.&nbsp;<h2>EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas defends US-Iran MoU</h2>&nbsp;Kallas defended the agreement as a possible step toward reducing tensions, saying there were “reasons for cautious optimism.” She argued that, if fully implemented, it could help ease pressure on global energy markets.Other political groups in the European Parliament also criticised the EU’s stance on the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-pm-s-son-an-ex-rajya-sabha-mp-duped-of-rs-7-80-crore-in-cyber-fraud-1781784940388">Former PM’s son, an ex-Rajya Sabha MP, duped of Rs 7.80 crore in cyber fraud</a>&nbsp;Iratxe García Pérez, member of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party, said that the agreement was “good news” but argued that the war demonstrated “the absolute nonsense” of the conflict.&nbsp;The US-Iran MoU signed remotely by US President Donald Trump and his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian aims at ending the conflict and includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil shipments. The deal also involves possible sanctions relief tied to “Iran meeting their commitments.”“The main thing is that Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. They fully agreed to that with strong policing powers, and they won’t have a nuclear weapon, which is what it was all about,” Trump said at the G7 Summit.

Spanish MEP Irene Montero shot barbs at the European Union for its inaction on developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Gaza, the Iran war, and the conflict in Lebanon. The event unfolded during a European Parliament debate.

Spanish Member of the European Parliament Irene Montero slammed the European Union and the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas during a debate in the European Parliament on the peace agreement between the US and Iran over what she described as the bloc’s failure to prevent conflicts and humanitarian crises. Addressing Kaja Kallas, who was present during the session, Montero questioned what Europe had to celebrate on the signing of the agreement. “What does Europe celebrate? Can we celebrate that we have prevented a genocide? Have we stopped an illegal aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran? Have we broken relations with Israel? Have we stopped the occupation of Lebanon? No, we cannot celebrate any of that,” Montero said. Also Read: UK-India trade deal worth over $6 billion to come into force on July 15 The Podemos Member of European Parliament then turned to Kallas, saying, “What do you celebrate, Mrs. Kallas? Do you celebrate Donald Trump’s birthday? So, let’s sing to him.”

Spanish MEP Irene Montero shot barbs at the European Union for its inaction on developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Gaza, the Iran war, and the conflict in Lebanon. The event unfolded during a European Parliament debate.

Spanish MEP Irene Montero slams EU for inaction, takes ‘Happy Birthday, Mr Genocide’ jab at Trump

The European Union on Monday announced that it has imposed sanctions on a unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and two Iranians for restricting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which around a fifth of the world’s oil flows.&nbsp;It is the first time that the European bloc has used new powers to sanction Iran for restricting freedom of navigation.&nbsp;The EU said in a statement that it has added the Hormozgan Provincial Command of the IRGC Navy to its sanctions list, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh and Hamid Hosseini.Akbarzadeh is deputy commander for political affairs of the IRGC Navy, while Hosseini is a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters’ Union, it said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-announces-end-of-military-operations-against-israel-warns-harsher-action-if-lebanon-attacked-again-1780925146328">Iran announces end of military operations against Israel, warns ‘harsher’ action if Lebanon attacked again</a>&nbsp;“Today the 27 member states approved sanctions against part of the IRGC Navy that it says is enforcing this tollbooth system, as well as two Iranian officials,” the Council of the EU said in a statement.“Tehran actively, effectively closed the Strait, and its drones continue to threaten the maritime traffic,” the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said while addressing a news conference held as part of an EU defence ministers meeting in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus.&nbsp;“Ministers were clear today that Iran’s actions are unacceptable. They sanctioned the IRGCN’s Hormozgan Provincial Command, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh, the navy’s deputy commander for political affairs, and Hamid Hosseini, a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals Exporters Union,” Kallas added.They will have their assets frozen, be hit with travel bans, and providing them funds or economic resources is prohibited.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-crisis-deepens-20-mps-write-to-lok-sabha-speaker-om-birla-want-to-ally-with-nda-1780919350352">TMC crisis deepens: 20 MPs write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, ‘want to ally with NDA’</a>&nbsp;Iran squeezed the vital waterway in reaction to the Israeli-American strikes launched in late February, and recently imposed a toll system for any ship wanting to pass through.&nbsp;<h2>Kaja Kallas urges all clashing sides to come to negotiating table</h2>&nbsp;The Middle East is “stuck in phases of peace talks and fragile ceasefires,” the EU’s top foreign policy official said on Monday after Iran and Israel traded strikes in a fresh flare-up of violence since the April truce came into effect.&nbsp;The EU foreign policy chief said there will be a “tremendous cost” for the entire region if the conflict returns to a full-scale war.“All sides must come back to the negotiation table,” she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-withdraws-z-plus-cover-of-lalu-yadav-rabri-devi-how-much-does-the-vip-protection-cost-taxpayers-1780746937908">Govt withdraws Z-plus cover of Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi. How much does the VIP protection cost taxpayers?</a>&nbsp;Overnight, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also called on Iran and Israel to “show restraint and de-escalate immediately.”“The resumption of conflict between Iran and Israel is in no one’s interest,” Cooper posted on X.&nbsp;“Negotiations must continue towards the lasting settlement that we all need, for peace and stability in the region, and for the full restoration of global trade,” she added.

The EU said it has added the Hormozgan Provincial Command of the IRGC Navy, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh, deputy commander for political affairs of the IRGC Navy, and Hamid Hosseini, a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters’ Union, to its sanctions list.

The European Union on Monday announced that it has imposed sanctions on a unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and two Iranians for restricting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which around a fifth of the world’s oil flows. It is the first time that the European bloc has used new powers to sanction Iran for restricting freedom of navigation. The EU said in a statement that it has added the Hormozgan Provincial Command of the IRGC Navy to its sanctions list, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh and Hamid Hosseini. Akbarzadeh is deputy commander for political affairs of the IRGC Navy, while Hosseini is a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters’ Union, it said. Also Read: Iran announces end of military operations against Israel, warns ‘harsher’ action if Lebanon attacked again “Today the 27 member states approved sanctions against part of the IRGC Navy that it says is enforcing this tollbooth system, as well as two Iranian officials,” the Council of the EU said in a statement. “Tehran actively, effectively closed the Strait, and its drones continue to threaten the maritime traffic,” the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said while addressing a news conference held as part of an EU defence ministers meeting in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. “Ministers were clear today that Iran’s actions are unacceptable. They sanctioned the IRGCN’s Hormozgan Provincial Command, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh, the navy’s deputy commander for political affairs, and Hamid Hosseini, a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals Exporters Union,” Kallas added. They will have their assets frozen, be hit with travel bans, and providing them funds or economic resources is prohibited. Also Read: TMC crisis deepens: 20 MPs write to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, ‘want to ally with NDA’ Iran squeezed the vital waterway in reaction to the Israeli-American strikes launched in late February, and recently imposed a toll system for any ship wanting to pass through. Kaja Kallas urges all clashing sides to come to negotiating table The Middle East is “stuck in phases of peace talks and fragile ceasefires,” the EU’s top foreign policy official said on Monday after Iran and Israel traded strikes in a fresh flare-up of violence since the April truce came into effect. The EU foreign policy chief said there will be a “tremendous cost” for the entire region if the conflict returns to a full-scale war. “All sides must come back to the negotiation table,” she added. Also Read: Govt withdraws Z-plus cover of Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi. How much does the VIP protection cost taxpayers? Overnight, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also called on Iran and Israel to “show restraint and de-escalate immediately.” “The resumption of conflict between Iran and Israel is in no one’s interest,” Cooper posted on X. “Negotiations must continue towards the lasting settlement that we all need, for peace and stability in the region, and for the full restoration of global trade,” she added.

The EU said it has added the Hormozgan Provincial Command of the IRGC Navy, as well as Mohammad Akbarzadeh, deputy commander for political affairs of the IRGC Navy, and Hamid Hosseini, a representative of Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters’ Union, to its sanctions list.

EU sanctions IRGC Navy unit, 2 Iranians over crippling Strait of Hormuz blockade

Kaja Kallas on Monday (May 11) said Ukraine is now in a stronger position than it was a year ago as EU foreign ministers met in Brussels to discuss the war, sanctions, and Europe’s broader security strategy. Speaking after the talks, Kallas said that “Ukraine is in a much better position than a year ago” as the dynamics of the war are changing due to the EU’s €90bn loan package, Russia’s record battlefield losses, and Ukraine’s expanding long-range strikes inside Russian territory. “But of course, there is no time for complacency,” she said. Kallas stressed that the European Union continues to work on additional measures to counter hybrid threats, prepare future sanctions packages, and explore long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.&nbsp;“The EU has always supported attempts to achieve a just and lasting peace. For Europe to take a more active role, we must agree amongst ourselves what we want to talk to Russia about and what our red lines are.” She also highlighted Ukraine’s progress toward EU membership despite the ongoing war, calling the country’s reforms remarkable under difficult conditions. “There is now new momentum, and we must use it to advance Ukraine’s path into the EU. This means opening all negotiation clusters before summer. Getting Ukraine into the EU is not charity. It’s an investment in our own security. And our message to Putin is clear: Ukraine’s European future is more important to us than the destruction of Ukraine is to Russia.”&nbsp;Kallas joked about differing interpretations of when ‘summer’ begins after being asked whether she meant June or August for the timeline on opening accession negotiation clusters. “I said, [summer], that’s [in] two weeks, but actually, apparently, European summer is August, so let’s see.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-iran-ceasefire-on-life-support-calls-tehran-s-new-truce-proposal-garbage-1778520169998">Trump says Iran ceasefire ‘on life support,’ calls Tehran’s new truce proposal ‘garbage’</a>&nbsp;On Russia, she revealed that EU ministers had already started discussing a 21st sanctions package aimed at Russia’s military-industrial sector and potentially its shadow fleet operations. She also commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting the war could eventually come to an end. “I think the overall understanding is that Putin is in a weaker position than he has ever been before.” According to Kallas, Russia is failing to secure decisive victories on the battlefield while domestic frustration and internet restrictions are increasing inside the country. However, she cautioned that Moscow still maintains “maximalist claims” and is not genuinely ready for peace negotiations. “That’s why we need to continue with our work,” she said.&nbsp;Kallas dismissed suggestions that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder could act as a mediator between Europe and Russia. “If we give the right to Russia to appoint a negotiator on our behalf, that would not be very wise. And second, I think Gerhard Schröder has been the high-level lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies, so it’s clear why Putin wants him to be the person, so that actually he would be sitting on both sides of the table.”&nbsp;On the Middle East, Kallas said EU ministers agreed to deepen cooperation with Gulf nations following tensions linked to Iran. “We will accelerate our work regarding the strategic partnership agreements with all six Gulf … countries, and we are ready to front-load our security and defence cooperation in the Strait of Hormuz.” She warned that the ceasefire involving Iran remained fragile and confirmed that the EU would expand sanctions targeting those obstructing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.Kallas also said that Hamas’ refusal to surrender weapons raises the risk of renewed conflict in Gaza.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-visits-chandrababu-naidu-residence-shares-warm-moment-with-nara-lokesh-1778508462495/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-visits-chandrababu-naidu-residence-shares-warm-moment-with-nara-lokesh-1778508462495/embed</a>&nbsp;Separately, she confirmed that the EU would resume cooperation agreements with Syria and lift sanctions on Syria’s interior and defence ministers, calling it an important signal. She additionally praised closer ties with Canada, describing it as the most European of all the non-European countries in the world. "Canada and the EU can be a stabilising force for foreign policy and trade."&nbsp;Kallas concluded by warning that Russia continues to expand its influence operations across Europe, including in sports and cultural institutions. “We unfortunately already see this in sports organisations, where, you know, Russians are allowed to compete as if nothing has happened. And there are discussions there. We also saw the Venice Biennale, where they are there like nothing has happened. So clearly they are working all the time, and we have to be vigilant as well.”

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas says Ukraine is gaining strength against Russia as the EU plans new sanctions, security guarantees, and faster accession talks for Kyiv

Kaja Kallas on Monday (May 11) said Ukraine is now in a stronger position than it was a year ago as EU foreign ministers met in Brussels to discuss the war, sanctions, and Europe’s broader security strategy. Speaking after the talks, Kallas said that “Ukraine is in a much better position than a year ago” as the dynamics of the war are changing due to the EU’s €90bn loan package, Russia’s record battlefield losses, and Ukraine’s expanding long-range strikes inside Russian territory. “But of course, there is no time for complacency,” she said. Kallas stressed that the European Union continues to work on additional measures to counter hybrid threats, prepare future sanctions packages, and explore long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. “The EU has always supported attempts to achieve a just and lasting peace. For Europe to take a more active role, we must agree amongst ourselves what we want to talk to Russia about and what our red lines are.” She also highlighted Ukraine’s progress toward EU membership despite the ongoing war, calling the country’s reforms remarkable under difficult conditions. “There is now new momentum, and we must use it to advance Ukraine’s path into the EU. This means opening all negotiation clusters before summer. Getting Ukraine into the EU is not charity. It’s an investment in our own security. And our message to Putin is clear: Ukraine’s European future is more important to us than the destruction of Ukraine is to Russia.” Kallas joked about differing interpretations of when ‘summer’ begins after being asked whether she meant June or August for the timeline on opening accession negotiation clusters. “I said, [summer], that’s [in] two weeks, but actually, apparently, European summer is August, so let’s see.” Also Read: Trump says Iran ceasefire ‘on life support,’ calls Tehran’s new truce proposal ‘garbage’ On Russia, she revealed that EU ministers had already started discussing a 21st sanctions package aimed at Russia’s military-industrial sector and potentially its shadow fleet operations. She also commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting the war could eventually come to an end. “I think the overall understanding is that Putin is in a weaker position than he has ever been before.” According to Kallas, Russia is failing to secure decisive victories on the battlefield while domestic frustration and internet restrictions are increasing inside the country. However, she cautioned that Moscow still maintains “maximalist claims” and is not genuinely ready for peace negotiations. “That’s why we need to continue with our work,” she said. Kallas dismissed suggestions that former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder could act as a mediator between Europe and Russia. “If we give the right to Russia to appoint a negotiator on our behalf, that would not be very wise. And second, I think Gerhard Schröder has been the high-level lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies, so it’s clear why Putin wants him to be the person, so that actually he would be sitting on both sides of the table.” On the Middle East, Kallas said EU ministers agreed to deepen cooperation with Gulf nations following tensions linked to Iran. “We will accelerate our work regarding the strategic partnership agreements with all six Gulf … countries, and we are ready to front-load our security and defence cooperation in the Strait of Hormuz.” She warned that the ceasefire involving Iran remained fragile and confirmed that the EU would expand sanctions targeting those obstructing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Kallas also said that Hamas’ refusal to surrender weapons raises the risk of renewed conflict in Gaza. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-visits-chandrababu-naidu-residence-shares-warm-moment-with-nara-lokesh-1778508462495/embed Separately, she confirmed that the EU would resume cooperation agreements with Syria and lift sanctions on Syria’s interior and defence ministers, calling it an important signal. She additionally praised closer ties with Canada, describing it as the most European of all the non-European countries in the world. "Canada and the EU can be a stabilising force for foreign policy and trade." Kallas concluded by warning that Russia continues to expand its influence operations across Europe, including in sports and cultural institutions. “We unfortunately already see this in sports organisations, where, you know, Russians are allowed to compete as if nothing has happened. And there are discussions there. We also saw the Venice Biennale, where they are there like nothing has happened. So clearly they are working all the time, and we have to be vigilant as well.”

In Brussels, Kaja Kallas said that Ukraine is stronger, Russia weaker, and the European Union must speed sanctions, security plans, and Kyiv’s EU accession

'Putin in a weaker position than ever before', says European Union Vice-President Kaja Kallas

The European Commission has proposed partially suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement, specifically targeting trade concessions, due to concerns over the Gaza conflict. This move, led by foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, aims to impose tariffs on Israeli goods and sanction extremist ministers, though the proposal faces opposition from member states like Germany, Italy, and Hungary, making its approval uncertain. 


EU Mulls Suspending EU-Israel Trade Agreement

European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, on Wednesday said India is becoming "indispensable" for the economic resilience of Europe and signalled that the bloc is ready to deliver on a powerful new agenda with New Delhi that includes trade, security, technology and people-to-people ties.&nbsp;Her statement came the day before the top leadership of the European Union arrived in India for the 16th EU-India Summit on January 27 and as chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations. Kallas set the showing of the significant reset in ties between the two strategic partners, according to a report in NDTV.&nbsp;Marking the upcoming meeting with India as an important moment in renewed geopolitics, Kaja Kallas stated that the ties between the two are moving closer together at a time when parts of the world are in strain due to wars, coercion and economic fragmentation.&nbsp;"Two major democracies cannot afford to hesitate," she said and argued that New Delhi and the EU share a responsibility to uphold international law, the UN Charter and an effective multilateral system that is suitable for the 21st century.<h3>Three key initiatives</h3>According to Kallas, leaders are set to go beyond declarations of intent and approve “concrete deliverables” aimed at turning commitments into action. She mentioned that three key initiatives are expected to take centre stage.&nbsp;First, both sides are seeking to wrap up talks on the long-delayed EU-India Free Trade Agreement. Kallas said the pact would open up markets, cut trade barriers and reinforce critical supply chains in sectors such as clean technology, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, industries that have become strategically vital amid global disruptions and geopolitical strains.&nbsp;Second, the EU on Wednesday agreed to proceed with the signing of a new EU-India Security and Defence Partnership, which Kallas said she plans to sign in New Delhi next week. The deal will deepen cooperation in areas including maritime security, counterterrorism and cyber defence, and will be paired with the start of negotiations on a security of information agreement. "In a more dangerous world, we will both gain from working closer together," she said in the European Parliament.&nbsp;Third, both sides plan to finalise a memorandum of understanding on a comprehensive framework for cooperation on mobility. The agreement is expected to ease the movement of seasonal workers, students, researchers and highly skilled professionals, while strengthening collaboration in research and innovation, a priority for both ends as key to long-term competitiveness.&nbsp;

Marking the upcoming meeting with India as an important moment in renewed geopolitics, Kaja Kallas stated that the ties between the two are moving closer together at a time when parts of the world are in strain due to wars, coercion and economic fragmentation.

European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, on Wednesday said India is becoming "indispensable" for the economic resilience of Europe and signalled that the bloc is ready to deliver on a powerful new agenda with New Delhi that includes trade, security, technology and people-to-people ties. Her statement came the day before the top leadership of the European Union arrived in India for the 16th EU-India Summit on January 27 and as chief guests for the Republic Day celebrations. Kallas set the showing of the significant reset in ties between the two strategic partners, according to a report in NDTV. Marking the upcoming meeting with India as an important moment in renewed geopolitics, Kaja Kallas stated that the ties between the two are moving closer together at a time when parts of the world are in strain due to wars, coercion and economic fragmentation. "Two major democracies cannot afford to hesitate," she said and argued that New Delhi and the EU share a responsibility to uphold international law, the UN Charter and an effective multilateral system that is suitable for the 21st century. Three key initiatives According to Kallas, leaders are set to go beyond declarations of intent and approve “concrete deliverables” aimed at turning commitments into action. She mentioned that three key initiatives are expected to take centre stage. First, both sides are seeking to wrap up talks on the long-delayed EU-India Free Trade Agreement. Kallas said the pact would open up markets, cut trade barriers and reinforce critical supply chains in sectors such as clean technology, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, industries that have become strategically vital amid global disruptions and geopolitical strains. Second, the EU on Wednesday agreed to proceed with the signing of a new EU-India Security and Defence Partnership, which Kallas said she plans to sign in New Delhi next week. The deal will deepen cooperation in areas including maritime security, counterterrorism and cyber defence, and will be paired with the start of negotiations on a security of information agreement. "In a more dangerous world, we will both gain from working closer together," she said in the European Parliament. Third, both sides plan to finalise a memorandum of understanding on a comprehensive framework for cooperation on mobility. The agreement is expected to ease the movement of seasonal workers, students, researchers and highly skilled professionals, while strengthening collaboration in research and innovation, a priority for both ends as key to long-term competitiveness.

Marking the upcoming meeting with India as an important moment in renewed geopolitics, Kaja Kallas stated that the ties between the two are moving closer together at a time when parts of the world are in strain due to wars, coercion and economic fragmentation.

India is ‘indispensable’ to Europe’s economic resilience, says EU ahead of 16th Summit with New Delhi

The EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said on Wednesday that the bloc must heed US President Donald Trump's demand to spend more on defence, as she issued a stark warning over the threat from Russia.
"President Trump is right to say that we don't spend enough. It's time to invest," Kallas said, adding that the United States must remain Europe's "strongest ally".&nbsp;
Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-working-on-second-phase-of-gaza-hostage-ceasefire-deal-report-8644060"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-working-on-second-phase-of-gaza-hostage-ceasefire-deal-report-8644060">Trump administration working on second phase of Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal: Report</a>
"President Trump is right to say that we don't spend enough. It's time to invest," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a keynote speech at a conference in Brussels. "The United States, they are our strongest ally, and must remain so."
"The EU's message to the US is clear, we must do more for our own defence and shoulder a fair share of responsibility for Europe's security," she said.
EU countries have increased their military budgets since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
But politicians acknowledge they will have to go further as they struggle to match Moscow's vast military output.
"Russia poses an existential threat to our security today, tomorrow and for as long as we under-invest in our defence," said Kallas, a former prime minister of Estonia.
"Many of our national intelligence agencies are giving us the information that Russia could test EU's readiness to defend itself in three to five years. Who else are we listening to?"
The leader of Poland, which spends proportionally more on defence than any NATO ally, urged fellow EU states to take seriously Trump's call to up the spending target to five percent of GDP from two percent.
"This is a time when Europe cannot afford to save on security," said Tusk, whose country took over the EU's rotating presidency this month.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | US must remain EU's 'strongest ally', says European Union's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, adding that Trump is right that EU doesn't 'spend enough' on defence

The EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said on Wednesday that the bloc must heed US President Donald Trump's demand to spend more on defence, as she issued a stark warning over the threat from Russia. "President Trump is right to say that we don't spend enough. It's time to invest," Kallas said, adding that the United States must remain Europe's "strongest ally". Also Read | Trump administration working on second phase of Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal: Report "President Trump is right to say that we don't spend enough. It's time to invest," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a keynote speech at a conference in Brussels. "The United States, they are our strongest ally, and must remain so." "The EU's message to the US is clear, we must do more for our own defence and shoulder a fair share of responsibility for Europe's security," she said. EU countries have increased their military budgets since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. But politicians acknowledge they will have to go further as they struggle to match Moscow's vast military output. "Russia poses an existential threat to our security today, tomorrow and for as long as we under-invest in our defence," said Kallas, a former prime minister of Estonia. "Many of our national intelligence agencies are giving us the information that Russia could test EU's readiness to defend itself in three to five years. Who else are we listening to?" The leader of Poland, which spends proportionally more on defence than any NATO ally, urged fellow EU states to take seriously Trump's call to up the spending target to five percent of GDP from two percent. "This is a time when Europe cannot afford to save on security," said Tusk, whose country took over the EU's rotating presidency this month. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

EU’s Kaja Kallas urges action on defence spending, says US must remain 'strongest ally'

Kaja Kallas has officially resigned as Estonia’s prime minister to become the European Union's foreign policy chief later this year.

Estonia's PM Kaja Kallas hands formal resignation to President Alar Karis

Russia has placed Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Lithuania’s culture minister and other officials from Baltic nations on its “wanted” list on Tuesday (Feb 13) for their alleged involvement in the destruction of Soviet-era monuments.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Only the beginning’</h2>

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the Estonian PM is wanted for “desecration of historical memory”.&nbsp;

The monuments, in question, some of which commemorate the Red Army, have long been controversial in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania as they are seen as a symbol of a time when they were under Soviet occupation.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago, the three Baltic nations Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have demolished most of their Soviet-era monuments.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Will NATO be dismantled? | True cost of receiving US’ protection in NATO

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Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the recent move “only the beginning,” adding that &nbsp;“Crimes against the memory of the world’s liberators from Nazism and fascism must be prosecuted.”&nbsp;

The Kremlin has said those placed on the “wanted” list by the Russian police had taken “hostile actions against historical memory” and Russia.

In addition to the Estonian PM, Estonia’s State Secretary Taimar Peterkop, and Karol Nawrocki, the head of Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance, were also added to the “wanted” list, according to the Russian media. &nbsp;

A report by Reuters, citing the Russian interior ministry’s database, said the list also includes 60 of the 100 members of the previous Latvian parliament, including former Interior Minister Marija Golubeva. The previous parliament’s term ended in November 2022.

Meanwhile, Lithuanian Culture Minister Simonas Kairys who was also included in the list has since slammed Russia accusing it of distorting facts.&nbsp;

“The regime is doing what it has always done: it is trying to stifle freedom...and to continue to create its own version that is at odds with facts or logic,” he told AFP.

Also&nbsp;Read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-dismisses-europes-warnings-about-russian-propaganda-689872">Kremlin dismisses Europe’s warnings about ‘Russian propaganda’</a>

The relations between the three countries and Russia have significantly deteriorated since the Russian invasion, not to mention the three Baltic nations are members of the European Union and NATO who have shown their staunch support for Ukraine since the beginning of the war. &nbsp;

<h2>‘Scare tactics’</h2>

In response to Moscow’s move, Kallas on Tuesday slammed Russian “scare tactics” and called it unsurprising. “The Russian Federation's move isn't surprising because this is their usual scare tactics,” said the Estonian PM in a statement.&nbsp;

She also vowed to further support war-torn Ukraine and fight “Russian propaganda”.&nbsp;

<h2>Will the Estonian PM, Baltic politicians be arrested?</h2>

In addition to the “wanted” list, the head of the Russian Investigative Committee, Alexander Bastrykin has since ordered a criminal investigation into the matter. However, the Russian interior ministry database did not specify under which article of the criminal code the wanted are prosecuted.

The dozens of Baltic officials, including mayors, and municipal deputies who are included in the “wanted” list, according to Russian state news agency TASS have been accused of “destroying monuments to Soviet soldiers,” which is punishable by a five-year prison term under the Russian criminal code.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-arrives-in-lithuania-on-visit-to-baltic-allies-with-focus-on-war-eu-integration-678656">Ukraine’s Zelensky arrives in Lithuania on visit to Baltic allies with focus on war, EU integration</a>

However, the Baltic politicians and the Estonian PM would not be arrested unless they enter Russian territory.

The Soviet-era monuments which were destroyed also included those commemorating Soviet soldiers killed in World War II. The Baltic states were annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940, then occupied by Nazi Germany before returning to Russian rule as part of the Soviet Communist bloc until its collapse in 1991.&nbsp;

<h2>Estonia’s warning for the West&nbsp;</h2>

On Tuesday, the Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service in its national security threats report, warned that Russia is preparing for a military confrontation with the West within the next decade.&nbsp;

“Russia has chosen a path which is a long-term confrontation...and the Kremlin is probably anticipating a possible conflict with NATO within the next decade or so,” Kaupo Rosin told reporters.&nbsp;

“If we are not prepared, the likelihood (of a military Russian attack) would be much higher than without any preparation,” Rosin added.

However, the report also noted that a military attack by Russia in the short term is “highly unlikely” given that Moscow has to keep troops in Ukraine, but it&nbsp;plans to double the number of forces stationed along its border with NATO members Finland and the three Baltic nations.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has placed Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Lithuania’s culture minister and other officials from Baltic nations on its “wanted” list on Tuesday (Feb 13) for their alleged involvement in the destruction of Soviet-era monuments.

Russia has placed Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Lithuania’s culture minister and other officials from Baltic nations on its “wanted” list on Tuesday (Feb 13) for their alleged involvement in the destruction of Soviet-era monuments. ‘Only the beginning’ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that the Estonian PM is wanted for “desecration of historical memory”. The monuments, in question, some of which commemorate the Red Army, have long been controversial in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania as they are seen as a symbol of a time when they were under Soviet occupation. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago, the three Baltic nations Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have demolished most of their Soviet-era monuments. WATCH | Will NATO be dismantled? | True cost of receiving US’ protection in NATO Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the recent move “only the beginning,” adding that “Crimes against the memory of the world’s liberators from Nazism and fascism must be prosecuted.” The Kremlin has said those placed on the “wanted” list by the Russian police had taken “hostile actions against historical memory” and Russia. In addition to the Estonian PM, Estonia’s State Secretary Taimar Peterkop, and Karol Nawrocki, the head of Poland’s Institute of National Remembrance, were also added to the “wanted” list, according to the Russian media. A report by Reuters, citing the Russian interior ministry’s database, said the list also includes 60 of the 100 members of the previous Latvian parliament, including former Interior Minister Marija Golubeva. The previous parliament’s term ended in November 2022. Meanwhile, Lithuanian Culture Minister Simonas Kairys who was also included in the list has since slammed Russia accusing it of distorting facts. “The regime is doing what it has always done: it is trying to stifle freedom...and to continue to create its own version that is at odds with facts or logic,” he told AFP. Also Read | Kremlin dismisses Europe’s warnings about ‘Russian propaganda’ The relations between the three countries and Russia have significantly deteriorated since the Russian invasion, not to mention the three Baltic nations are members of the European Union and NATO who have shown their staunch support for Ukraine since the beginning of the war. ‘Scare tactics’ In response to Moscow’s move, Kallas on Tuesday slammed Russian “scare tactics” and called it unsurprising. “The Russian Federation's move isn't surprising because this is their usual scare tactics,” said the Estonian PM in a statement. She also vowed to further support war-torn Ukraine and fight “Russian propaganda”. Will the Estonian PM, Baltic politicians be arrested? In addition to the “wanted” list, the head of the Russian Investigative Committee, Alexander Bastrykin has since ordered a criminal investigation into the matter. However, the Russian interior ministry database did not specify under which article of the criminal code the wanted are prosecuted. The dozens of Baltic officials, including mayors, and municipal deputies who are included in the “wanted” list, according to Russian state news agency TASS have been accused of “destroying monuments to Soviet soldiers,” which is punishable by a five-year prison term under the Russian criminal code. Also Read | Ukraine’s Zelensky arrives in Lithuania on visit to Baltic allies with focus on war, EU integration However, the Baltic politicians and the Estonian PM would not be arrested unless they enter Russian territory. The Soviet-era monuments which were destroyed also included those commemorating Soviet soldiers killed in World War II. The Baltic states were annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940, then occupied by Nazi Germany before returning to Russian rule as part of the Soviet Communist bloc until its collapse in 1991. Estonia’s warning for the West On Tuesday, the Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service in its national security threats report, warned that Russia is preparing for a military confrontation with the West within the next decade. “Russia has chosen a path which is a long-term confrontation...and the Kremlin is probably anticipating a possible conflict with NATO within the next decade or so,” Kaupo Rosin told reporters. “If we are not prepared, the likelihood (of a military Russian attack) would be much higher than without any preparation,” Rosin added. However, the report also noted that a military attack by Russia in the short term is “highly unlikely” given that Moscow has to keep troops in Ukraine, but it plans to double the number of forces stationed along its border with NATO members Finland and the three Baltic nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia puts Estonian PM Kaja Kallas, Baltic politicians on ‘wanted’ list for this reason

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government. The deal, as per the news agency AP, comes five weeks after the nation's general elections. Party councils of Kallas' Reform Party, the centrist Estonia 200 party and the Social Democratic Party, said that following lengthy talks, agreeing on government programs for the next four years, they would form the coalition. A formal signing of the coalition will take place on Monday, after which Kallas would hand to President Alar Karis her resignation for the current term.

“This agreement ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country,”&nbsp;who will remain as prime minister, said during a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a>

Kallas whose party won Estonia's March 5 parliamentary elections with 31.2 per cent vote will remain the Prime Minister. She said that the agreement "ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country."

Her Reform Party as per AP was also the senior partner in the outgoing three-party government, in which it had partnered with the Social Democrats and the conservative Isamaa (Fatherland) party.

Kallas, who is the nation's first female Prime Minister, has chaired the Reform Party since 2019, and the latest Cabinet will be her third.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-loses-three-un-votes-over-ukraine-war-580431">Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’</a>

The Reform party would hold 60 seat majority at the 101-seat Estonian parliament called Riigikogu. Of the 13-member Cabinet, Reform will hold seven ministerial portfolios, including the prime minister, the finance minister and the defence minister portfolios.

Estonia 200 and the Social Democrats will have three ministerial portfolios each.

As per Kallas, defence and security would top the new Cabinet's agenda. Referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war in Estonia's neighbourhood, she said "security is a main concern" and added that’s why the country is "increasing our defence expenditure ... in the coming years."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government. The deal, as per the news agency AP, comes five weeks after the nation's general elections. Party councils of Kallas' Reform Party, the centrist Estonia 200 party and the Social Democratic Party, said that following lengthy talks, agreeing on government programs for the next four years, they would form the coalition. A formal signing of the coalition will take place on Monday, after which Kallas would hand to President Alar Karis her resignation for the current term. “This agreement ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country,” who will remain as prime minister, said during a news conference. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine Kallas whose party won Estonia's March 5 parliamentary elections with 31.2 per cent vote will remain the Prime Minister. She said that the agreement "ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country." Her Reform Party as per AP was also the senior partner in the outgoing three-party government, in which it had partnered with the Social Democrats and the conservative Isamaa (Fatherland) party. Kallas, who is the nation's first female Prime Minister, has chaired the Reform Party since 2019, and the latest Cabinet will be her third. Also read | Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’ The Reform party would hold 60 seat majority at the 101-seat Estonian parliament called Riigikogu. Of the 13-member Cabinet, Reform will hold seven ministerial portfolios, including the prime minister, the finance minister and the defence minister portfolios. Estonia 200 and the Social Democrats will have three ministerial portfolios each. As per Kallas, defence and security would top the new Cabinet's agenda. Referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war in Estonia's neighbourhood, she said "security is a main concern" and added that’s why the country is "increasing our defence expenditure ... in the coming years." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kaja Kallas to remain Estonia's PM; Reform party, Estonia 200 party and Social Democratic party form coalition

Estonian PM Kaja Kallas's party wins election, the most pro-Kyiv government. PM Kallas vows to keep up pressure on Russia and continue providing aid for Ukraine. Political commentator Stephen Golub joins us to discuss why the result of Estonia's election is important for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine?

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas' Reform Party secures 31.6 percent of the vote versus 16.1 percent by the far-right EKRE party with 98 percent of ballots counted.

Estonia General Election 2023: PM Kallas secures big win for centre-right party

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