The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, has declared that the free world requires new leadership following a diplomatic incident at the White House involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.
Kallas made the statement on social media, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to Ukraine and pledging increased support to help the country continue its resistance against Russian aggression.
Ukraine is Europe!
We stand by Ukraine.We will step up our support to Ukraine so that they can continue to fight back the agressor.
Today, it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It’s up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge.
— Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) February 28, 2025
Her remarks come in the wake of an abrupt end to Zelensky’s visit to Washington, which concluded prematurely after a confrontation with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance.
Tensions escalated during their discussions, leading to Zelensky’s early departure from the White House. In response, Trump accused the Ukrainian leader of disrespecting the United States and claimed that Zelensky was “not ready for peace.”
The incident has prompted strong reactions from European officials, who have expressed solidarity with Ukraine. Several EU leaders have reiterated their support for Kyiv and signalled their determination to maintain assistance, even as political divisions in Washington raise uncertainty about continued US backing.
Kallas’ statement reflects growing concerns in European capitals over the trajectory of transatlantic relations under the current US administration. Since taking office, Trump has adopted a more restrained stance on aid to Ukraine, calling for negotiations with Russia and questioning the level of European contributions to the war effort. His latest remarks have reinforced fears that Washington’s commitment to Ukraine may be wavering.
In contrast, European leaders have sought to present a united front. While NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has emphasised the alliance’s continued military and strategic support for Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa have urged the EU to take a greater leadership role in global security.
Germany and France, two of Ukraine’s key European backers, have also underscored their ongoing support. Berlin has signalled readiness to expand military assistance, while French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a stronger European response in the face of shifting US policy.
The latest developments are likely to further intensify the debate within the EU over its defence and foreign policy ambitions. With uncertainty over the future of US engagement, calls for greater European autonomy in security and defence matters have gained momentum. Kallas’ statement aligns with this broader discussion, positioning Europe as a potential counterbalance to Washington’s shifting priorities.
